"I want to bring experience, personality, and a sense of responsibility to the team"
Q. Please tell us about the circumstances of joining Tokyo.
A, there was a very long process leading up to joining. I had been communicating with the club for over half a year, but at that time, due to factors such as injuries, the timing did not align for various reasons. This time, the timing coincided well, and I signed.
Q. I believe there are very high expectations for Alexander SCHOLZ.
A, I feel a lot of pressure, and everyone knows my history of playing about three seasons in the J.League and my own playing style. When I belonged to Urawa Reds, I was in good condition and was able to have a very good season. I understand that people expect me to play with the same quality as I did back then.
Q. Please tell us your impression of Tokyo.
A, When I belonged to Urawa, I always had the impression that we played closely contested matches against Tokyo. I recognize that Tokyo is currently in a period of trying new things to change the team's style. I will adapt to that style and do my best.
Q, Tokyo had a very tough time in the first half of the league. What do you, Scholz, want to bring to the team?
A, first of all, I want to bring my own experience, personality, and sense of responsibility to the team. I aim to create a sense of unity and encourage the team to move forward together. I believe each player can perform better, and I have the impression that we are working towards a positive direction as a team. While learning the team's approach, I want to adjust accordingly. Since we conceded many goals from crosses, we must address this issue. With proper organization and communication, I believe we will see immediate results.
Q. When it comes to player Scholz, the impression of long hair is very strong, but I was surprised to see it cut short (laughs).
A, I thought that would be the first question, so I was prepared (laughs). The season in Qatar ended, and I thought there wouldn't be any photo or video shoots for a while, so I cut it off sharply. Then, it was decided that I would join Tokyo, and right after joining, there were interviews and team photo shoots like this scheduled (laughs). Qatar was very hot, so that was also a reason for cutting it short. I do miss my long hair a little. Of course, just because my hair is shorter doesn't mean I'll let anyone say "your heading has gotten weaker" (laughs).
Q, On July 19th, we have an upcoming match against my former team, Urawa.
A, I am very excited. As a Tokyo player, we will go to win against Urawa. This is a special game with special feelings. We will aim to win the match, but after the game, I want to shake hands with the Urawa players with a smile.
Q. What did your experience in Qatar bring to you, player Scholz?
A, it was a style of football I had never experienced before. It was a form that focused on individuals, and I couldn't fully express my own style. I think it was a time to learn to complete things on my own and to focus on myself. (Compared to the J.League) the play tempo was different. There were many high-speed players among the opponents. The J.League gives the impression that every club is well organized, making it not easy to score goals. On the other hand, Qatar seemed to emphasize physicality and power.
The remaining factor is the climate. Although the outside temperature exceeds 40 degrees, the stadium is fully air-conditioned, and inside the venue it is 20 degrees. The temperature difference placed a significant burden on the body. Before transferring to Qatar, I had never caught a cold, but I often fell ill.
