To demand from those around you means that the two of them understand that they are expected to play at a higher level. Sometimes they lead from the front, sometimes they pull from behind, and sometimes they keep an eye on the whole team from the center. They understand that no matter what, bringing the team together and creating a sense of unity leads to the "best view". No matter what anyone says, these men are serious. By believing in themselves, victory will come. Mori and Terry are determined to win the league title and experience that joy again and again.
──I will ask directly. What does winning the league mean to you two?
Morishige There has always been a desire. But, because it is difficult to realize it, there is no choice but to continue challenging while worrying like this. The reason why we haven't won anything so far is because there is a reason for it, so we need to dig deeper into it. Right now, I'm trying to change under Peter. We have to actively work on what we talked about today as a team. Because in the end, we want to win and finish. If we can do that, we can say "no regrets in our soccer career" and end it. If that happens, I'm already satisfied (laughs).
Nakagawa Hmm, the league title is definitely necessary when changing clubs. It's something I personally felt when I won. Last season, we were trying to find the reason why Tokyo couldn't win the league, but I don't think there is an answer. Winning the league is something that becomes visible by steadily building step by step, so I was personally really frustrated with our ranking last season. I kept thinking, why can't we win? So this season, it's a big deal to be able to work with Peter from the beginning. The soccer we are aiming for is quite difficult, and we need to become one as a family, solving each problem together, and becoming stronger while making adjustments, for better or for worse. I feel that this is the most important thing for Tokyo right now. If we can get that part right, I think we can become an unstoppable team. I don't know if Mori-kun will retire after this season, but when we win the league title, I'll be so happy I could die (laughs).
Morishige I'm happy and sad at the same time when it comes to the end (laughs).
Nakagawa Well, that's just a joke (laughs). But, I also have that kind of determination. I'll be 32 years old this year, and Mori-kun is even older. How many titles we can win in our short soccer career is very important, and I also want to win my third league title. But, it's meaningless if I'm the only one working hard. If we can all work towards our team goal, I think we can see the best view.
Mori Shigeru Teru also said, but a sense of unity is really important. Not only the team, but also the club staff and fans and supporters. If everything doesn't come together, it's not something that can be easily achieved. I also know that when everyone's passion comes together, it can become a great force, so I want to value a sense of unity.
──Aiming for the league championship. What kind of season do you want to have in 2024?
Morishige Of course, I want to win the league title, but personally, I want to challenge myself beyond my age once again. I want to continue to prepare myself more and more so that I can always contribute to the team.
Nakagawa I think that if the players in the front line can produce results and numbers, we will naturally get closer to winning. I want to reach double digits in goals and assists, and I think that will be a strength for the team. I received the okay from Mori-kun, so I will be allowed to play freely in the front line (laughs).
Morishige Have fun and do as you like (lol).
Text by Daisuke Suga (El Golasso)
