On June 13th, following the conclusion of MEIJI YASUDA J.LEAGUE 100 YEAR VISION LEAGUE, the J.League All-Star Game will be held for the first time in 17 years.

Prior to that, yesterday, May 12th, the "J.League All-Star DAZN Cup Fan & Supporter Voting Results & Uniform Announcement Ceremony" was held at MUFG Stadium (National Stadium), with Shusaku Nishikawa from Urawa Reds participating.
Nishikawa, who was selected for the All-Star team for the third time in his career based on fan and supporter votes, spoke about his thoughts and aspirations for the All-Star game during the event.



Upon arriving at the venue, Nishikawa donned the All-Star uniform and participated in the talk session in front of many media and staff members. He had played with guest Masashi Nakayama in the All-Star games in 2005 and 2006, and Nakayama recalled, "Back then, I had the impression that (Nishikawa) was young. I think I won the MIP (Most Impressive Player) award at that time (※awarded in 2005), but that was only because Nishikawa defended the team that I got that role," he said, smiling as he spoke about his memories from that time.



Also, in a discussion about off-pitch all-stars, Nishikawa spoke about the work of the staff who support the team's daily activities behind the scenes.
"After practice, we get to eat lunch every day, and the cafeteria staff who prepare delicious meals for us, as well as the laundry ladies, even though my clothes get really dirty after practice as a goalkeeper, they hand-wash each and every one of them so that they're ready and clean for the next day."
In words that were typical of Nishikawa's warmth, he conveyed his respect and gratitude to the staff, who he rarely speaks to publicly.

Afterward, a photo session was held. Wearing their uniforms, they smiled and posed for photos taken by the assembled press.



When the interview moved to a press conference, Nishikawa once again expressed his joy at being selected for the All-Star team.

"The fact that I can play as a teammate with players I usually compete against is refreshing and exciting in itself. I understand the value of this tournament in terms of really boosting the J.League, so I'm looking forward to playing here at the National Stadium in a different atmosphere than usual."

Furthermore, when asked about the player he is looking forward to playing with as a teammate, he immediately named Yuma Suzuki of Kashima Antlers.

"He's a player I always keep an eye on when he's on the opposing team, but this time we'll be fighting together as teammates, so his demeanor and ability in front of goal will definitely be an asset, and I'm looking forward to playing with him," he commented. He revealed his excitement for the special atmosphere that will be created precisely because it's a different situation than usual.

After the event, Nishikawa left the venue with a smile, exchanging words with players from other clubs.

On June 13th, the stage is MUFG Stadium.
Shusaku Nishikawa will be representing Urawa Reds and taking to the pitch as one of the All-Star members. Keep an eye on him as he energizes the J.League and Japanese football in general.



[Urawa Reds Official Media (URD:OM)]