Following Kyogo Furuhashi, messages of congratulations on achieving a second consecutive league championship were also received from Junya Tanaka and Hirofumi Watanabe.Knowing how great that feat is, the joy is all the more profound.Every single sentiment that is expressed becomes a motivation for the players, making Vissel Kobe even stronger.

The pinnacle of individual tactics in modern Soccer, Vissel Kobe has managed to bring out 100% of the excellent aspects of their players —— Junya Tanaka

——How was Vissel Kobe’s performance throughout this season?

Tanaka: “The season started while they were strategizing and analyzing their opponents.The impression throughout the year was that the way of fighting, which had been unwavering since last year, had surpassed all teams.Especially at the beginning of the season, there were times when the team struggled with referee’s decisions and dropped wins, and at times, key players like Hotaru Yamaguchi and Gotoku Sakai were injured, which made team management difficult.However, the integration of new forces and the resulting competition among the entire team was truly wonderful.The quality and motivation of the players who appeared as substitutes became the driving force to overcome the team’s predicament.I believe that all the players trying to adhere to the standards set by Manager Yoshida are always ready, which may be evidence of this.Speaking of new members, the performances of Miyashiro and Ideguchi were outstanding.I believe Vissel Kobe wouldn’t have won this year without them.”

—What do you think contributed to achieving back-to-back league championships?

Tanaka: “I believe that Vissel Kobe’s soccer is all about fully bringing out the best in the exceptional players who are at the pinnacle of individual tactics in modern soccer. They simply avoids risks, supplies the front line, and then the players on the front line take control of the ball, create many opportunities from crosses, and score goals. It’s easy to talk about it, but implementing it is terrifyingly difficult – that’s soccer for you. I believe a major factor in our victory was having a team of players who could deliver and who executed until the very end.”

——What words would you like to say to Vissel Kobe’s players?

Tanaka: “Congratulations on your second consecutive victory.I have nothing but respect.Next season, you’re going for a three-peat, and I absolutely believe you can achieve it. I am looking forward to the opening of next season.”

——Please share a message with fans, supporters, and the local people of Kobe.

Tanaka: “Congratulations on the victory to all Vissel Kobe supporters.The supporters in Kobe are the best as they love the players at all times, whether good or bad, and they straightforwardly express this love.I really love this sense of distance.Even after leaving the team, I truly appreciate your continued concern for me. Thank you very much. I will also do my best to energize the soccer scene, so let’s continue to enjoy soccer together.”

The essence of strength is, “clarity of vision as a club” and “thorough professionalism” to realize it —— Hirofumi Watanabe

——Please say a few words about Vissel Kobe’s achievement of winning the league title two years in a row.

Watanabe: “Congratulations to everyone at Vissel Kobe on winning the league title two years in a row! I express my deepest respect to the athletes, staff, front office, and supporters who have achieved this great accomplishment.”

——What do you think is the true strength of Vissel Kobe?

Watabe: “First of all, I believe the factor that made consecutive victories possible was indeed the high quality of each player and the impressive fusion of this with the completeness of the team.On top of that, I saw and felt that the essence of Vissel Kobe’s strength lies in the “clarity of vision as a club” and the “thorough professionalism” required to realize it.Vissel Kobe is not just about winning, but also has a strong will to enrich the community through soccer, deeply rooted in the city of Kobe. Isn’t it possible that this philosophy has permeated among the players and staff, manifesting itself in their daily efforts and performance in games?”

——What words would you like to say to your colleagues at Vissel Kobe?

Watabe: “As a former member of this club, I am genuinely delighted to witness such growth. We continue to anticipate not only in Japan, but also in Asia and around the world.”

——Please share a message with fans, supporters, and the local people of Kobe.

Watabe: “Thank you to all the supporters and the locals of Kobe for your truly wonderful support.I believe that everyone’s cheers supported the team and brought about this result.Please continue to invigorate the city of Kobe, and create a brighter future.Congratulations indeed!”

EDIT: Yohsuke Watanabe, Shiori Saeki (IN FOCUS)