In 2023, Ohgihara became a regular in the latter half of the season, supporting Vissel Kobe's first victory from a midfield position.Having won the J.LEAGUE during his time with Yokohama F. Marinos, and possessing a "winner's mentality," how did he view this season's team from his experienced perspective?And what I think about the upcoming season is.

Ohgihara, who has a brilliant career including participating in the London Olympics and winning the J.LEAGUE, has had many days of hardship since joining Vissel Kobe in 2022, often lacking opportunities to play.Even so, by diligently accumulating practice, from the second half of this season, he has been leading Vissel Kobe as an indispensable player in the team contending for the championship.After overcoming hardships, they brilliantly shone as the champion.

――Congratulations on winning the J.LEAGUE.How do you feel looking back at this turbulent season?

I’m genuinely happy about the team’s victory.Indeed, I feel that winning is a wonderful thing.On the other hand, I myself was able to participate in games from the latter half of the season, and there were times when I was able to ride on the momentum of the team.Therefore, I also feel regret for wanting to perform well throughout the season.

――Ohgihara has experienced winning the J.LEAGUE with Yokohama F. Marinos.Considering such experiences, what kind of “strength” did Vissel Kobe have this season?

There are various reasons, but one is the high level of consciousness of each player.The impression was that we were able to face the match with confidence as a team, as we never neglected our preparations for the match.The integration of veterans and newcomers also played a significant role.Experienced players led the team through their play, inspiring the younger players who, upon observing this, engaged aggressively in practice from the early stages.I believe a good cycle has been created.

――Is the environment conducive to growth?

Only Vissel Kobe has gathered so many players who have excelled on the front lines of national teams and overseas clubs.I feel that there’s no better environment to observe their demeanor, their attitude towards soccer, and their high-level performance.That’s just how fierce the competition is, but for the younger generation, it’s a chance to shed a layer.As more players seize the opportunity, the team is expected to become even stronger.

――How is the atmosphere of the team after winning the championship?

Of course, everyone is expressing their joy of winning, but it seems that many players are already looking ahead to next year.I can sense the desire to become stronger and more skilled from each player, so there is no frivolous atmosphere.I believe this is the source of Vissel Kobe’s strength.The results didn’t come from just working hard this year alone, but from feeling frustrated last year, thinking about how each of us could win, and accumulating daily efforts.Everyone understands that it’s a victory as a result.

――How did you feel about the local fan’s cheers in Kobe, which was very excited about the win this time?

There’s no doubt it’s becoming our strength.The atmosphere was so intense before the match, it made you think, “We can win today.”On the other hand, there is also a feeling of wanting to liven things up even more.This season’s home games had a lot of supporters rushing in, pushing our backs. Gave it to me.Next year, we also have the ACL (Asian Champions League), and if we can get that many supporters to come, including for away games, there is nothing more reassuring than that.I want to work hard so that more people can support me.

――syncSPORTS is a media platform that covers a variety of sports. What does Ohgihara, think are the unique charms of soccer?

The close proximity between the stands and the pitch, allowing you to directly experience the tense atmosphere, is truly wonderful, isn’t it?In particular, the home ground of Vissel Kobe, Noevir Stadium Kobe, provides an ideal environment for watching soccer. We are confident that if you come once, you will recognize its charm.I believe that this victory has been able to provide dreams and hopes to soccer fans and children. Furthermore, I would be delighted if it served as an opportunity for the local people in Kobe and those who are not yet interested in soccer to feel that “Soccer is interesting”.

――What is the motivation for Ohgihara to engage in Soccer?

The desire to win the match in front of me, to become the champion, is my motivation.Now that I’m in my thirties, I don’t know how many more years I can play.That’s precisely why being able to participate in matches is a joy, and it serves as motivation to work hard in soccer.

――Please tell us about your future goals.

As a team, they have won two consecutive J.LEAGUE championships and the ACL championship.Personally, I want to consistently participate in games throughout the season and contribute to the team’s victory.

――Is there anything you keep in mind to perform well throughout the season?

Since I’m getting older, I just continue doing what I’ve been doing, without doing anything special.There is pressure in the competition for the championship and the regular position, but I’m trying to take that positively.On the other hand, it’s important to relax as well. For instance, during the off-season, I make time to meet people I wouldn’t normally see and to relax with my family.And gradually, I plan to rev up for the next season, training to overcome my own challenges.

While Ohgihara expressed genuine joy about the team’s victory, he also felt regret about his own performance throughout the season.Even in his 13th year as a professional, glimpses of his relentless ambition to “play in the match” and “want to win the championship” could be seen.Challenging the next season as the defending champion.I look forward to seeing his further evolved gameplay.

INTERVIEW: Yohsuke Watanabe (IN FOCUS)
TEXT: Kodai Wada
PHOTO: Masato Tamura