On Tuesday, January 7th, the Urawa Reds 2025 Season New and Returning Players Press Conference was held at the Saitama Stadium Ballroom.



First, Representative Taguchi Makoto said, "In 2024, we achieved results that gave us hope for the future, such as our ladies' and academy teams winning titles, but we take seriously the fact that the men's top team finished 13th in the league, far short of our set goals. We would also like to apologize for causing concern to everyone, such as key players leaving the team mid-season and the change of training director and manager."

He then stated, "In the midst of all this, we had over 700,000 people come to the stadium for the first time in 15 years, and their unchanging passion was the greatest support for us," and shared his aspirations, saying, "The style of football that Urawa Reds are aiming for will not change in the 2025 season. We will thoroughly adhere to the philosophy of 'mastering football and pursuing victory,' and build on the concept." He expressed his determination to aim for victory in all competitions, including the FIFA Club World Cup, and to grow in business as well.



Following Taguchi's opening remarks, the new season's uniforms and practice wear were unveiled, and each of the partner companies was introduced by Asai Natsumi, a familiar stadium MC who was hosting the event.

Then, led by Sports Director Horinouchi Satoshi, the six new players and four returning players from loan transfers entered the stadium. SD Horinouchi began by saying, "We have acquired players who have a proven track record both at home and abroad, players who have gained experience at other clubs, and young players who will shape the future," and introduced the players by saying, "Above all, these players should have the desire to play for Urawa Reds and fight wearing this emblem."



Afterwards, each player spoke about their aspirations for joining or returning to the Reds and their strengths, and also answered questions from media representatives in the venue.

Takuro Kaneko

"I have made this decision with a strong resolve. I want to give it my all and contribute to Urawa Reds winning the title. I think my greatest strength is being able to show it on my own. I would like to understand the team's tactics and then show my full potential."

Yasushi Matsumoto

"I came here with a strong determination to win the title. I think my strengths are my energy, my ability to get involved from the second and third rows all the way to the goal and my ability to defend."

Nagakura Miki

"My strength is my ability to get moving. I will do my best to contribute to the team's victory."

Kenta Nemoto

"I will do my best to utilize my strengths, namely heading, passing, long passes and one-on-one strengths, play in as many games as possible and contribute to the team's victory."

Matheus Savio

"I am very happy to join Urawa Reds. I am preparing to win the championship. I want to win for the sake of the fans and supporters. My speciality is technique."

Kai Shibato

"I am also happy to be playing with the Urawa Reds emblem on. My strengths are my ability to get close to the ball, my stamina, and my efforts to steal the ball. With the fresh feeling I had seven years ago (as a rookie) and the experience I have gained from my career as a professional soccer player, I will fight hard and do my best to help the team win at least one game."

Toshiki Takahashi

"I would like to contribute to Urawa Reds with the experience I gained at Yokohama FC, and contribute to winning the J.League championship with my strengths, such as dedication and scoring goals."

Takuya Ogiwara

"Last season was my first time playing overseas, and it was a very stimulating and rewarding experience. It made me realise that I wanted to play at a higher level and express myself on a higher stage. I have set new goals, and in the process, I feel happy to be able to demonstrate my worth once again at Urawa Reds. My strengths are my speed and my left-footed kick. I will do my best to give everything I've got back to this club."

Jumpei Hayakawa

"I had a tough season in Okayama, but I learned a lot. I want to contribute to the team by receiving the ball between players and passing it forward, which is one of my strengths, and leave some marks, such as scoring."

Toshikazu Teruuchi

"I will do my best to contribute to the team's victory by taking advantage of my strengths, such as running behind the defense and shooting, and being the starting point of attacks with post play."

The full text of the interview is available on the site members page.
https://sp.urawa-reds.co.jp/

Click here to see the press conference for new and returning players for the 2025 season.