Believing that the difficult battle with repeated injuries will lead to a bright future
Every person and player has a story. '2024 PLAYER’S REVIEW' introduces all the blue and red warriors who fought through the 2024 season, player by player. What thoughts did they carry as they went through the season? Confidence, a sense of achievement, challenges, joy, regret... Reflecting on this season's battles through the words of each individual.
Tsuyoshi OGASHIWA joined Tokyo with great expectations as a new point getter. He aimed to improve his injury-prone physique by undergoing body transformation during the pre-season camp, but despite showing impressive plays in the matches he participated in, he struggled with repeated injuries and was unable to stand on the pitch throughout the season. Although he felt a certain level of achievement when he was on the pitch, he himself could not accept the low 'operating rate.' Nevertheless, what was the first year of this man, who continued to lead for the team and the future, like?
With each passing day, the sighs grow deeper. Tsuyoshi OGASHIWA reflects on such moments of anguish.
"Personally, I am not satisfied and it has been a season that I cannot accept. I had expectations for myself, and there were people around me who had expectations as well. I can only feel regret for not being able to meet those expectations. I am filled with a sense of inadequacy, and the biggest issue is the match time; I have not been able to overcome the challenges (of injuries), so it is only natural to feel disappointed."
After several years of longing since my time at Meiji University, I have finally joined the blue and red this season, carrying great expectations.
At his former club Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo, he repeatedly suffered injuries since turning professional, and the seasons in which he could compete satisfactorily were limited. That is why, in his new environment, he was forced to endure and train separately from the team before the season started to improve his physical condition. He faced his own body with patience and scored his first goal after the transfer in the Meiji Yasuda J1 League Round 9 match against FC Machida Zelvia. He had the determination to say, 'Now, it starts from here,' but he was injured and had to leave the field again, distancing himself from the competition.
"I think I was able to show good play when I participated, and I wish I had a little more time. Players who cannot participate are evaluated lower than any of the players who are on the field. We need to reflect on the fact that we are not even at the starting line in the first place."
There were many times I spat that out. However, I had learned how to deal with injuries over the past few years. Kogashi prefaced by saying, "It's something I absolutely must not get used to..." and took the process of returning step by step. During that time, I kept saying, "I want to bring a new breeze to this team."
The results were evident in Sec. 29 against Sanfrecce Hiroshima. After coming onto the pitch in the 26th minute of the second half, trailing by three goals, he ignited the team with a goal, his first in about four months, just eight minutes later. Ultimately, they lost 2-3, marking six matches without a win, but this gust of wind created an opportunity for the team to ride a wave of momentum.
"I had many opportunities to watch the team from the bench and outside. While watching the matches at the stadium or on DAZN, I was clear about what the team was lacking and how I would play if I were to join. I was able to show that in the match against Hiroshima, which reflected in the score, and I think I was able to switch it on. I believe that was good, but if we can play like that consistently throughout the year, we can elevate the team to another level. I would be happy if you think that is the kind of play that Kogashi wants to do. It would be great if we could maintain that kind of play throughout the year."
Since then, there have been repeated comebacks and departures. If only Kogashi were here... If I could chase the ball more freely without the burden of my injury-prone body... There were many moments like that throughout the season. The most frustrating person must be him. "At least," he tells himself, forcing out bright words.
"I hope to be a trigger or a guide for something. Everyone is struggling together. I want to come in and lead the attack of this team."
To rise tomorrow, I have shrunk today──. In the place where the struggling Kogashi leads, surely the blue and red hope awaits.
Text by Kohei Baba (Freelance Writer)
