Get Newsletter
Notification products, updates
×
×
Notification products, updates
February 1, 2024
Credits to J League Image Gallery
Since their return to the Meiji Yasuda J1 League in 2020, Kashiwa Reysol has exhibited an intriguing and somewhat perplexing pattern of alternating performances from season to season. Each year seems to bring a distinct narrative for the club; one season, they achieve an impressive finish in the top half of the league table, showcasing their potential and skill, only to find themselves embroiled in a relegation battle the following year, struggling to secure their place in the league.
The 2023 campaign was particularly challenging for Reysol, as they fought valiantly but often languished near the bottom of the standings. Their inability to gain consistent traction throughout the season left them looking over their shoulders, concerned about the threat of relegation. As they move into the 2024 season, the club hopes this alternating trend will turn in their favor, allowing them to break free from the cycle of struggle.
With the new season on the horizon, Kashiwa Reysol is determined to make a significant leap back into the top half of the standings. They are focused on leaving the difficulties of the previous season behind and aiming for a more stable and successful campaign. The players and coaching staff are eager to harness their potential and build on their strengths, striving for consistency that will propel them back into contention for a higher league finish.
Reysol kicked off the season with two draws, but four consecutive losses quickly dropped them to the bottom. Throughout the remainder of the campaign, they could not rise above 15th place or escape the threat of relegation. However, a run of four straight draws at the end of the season proved crucial, allowing them to finish four points clear of the relegation zone.
Once again, Mao Hosoya and Matheus Sávio emerged as the team’s key players. At 22 years old, Hosoya found the back of the net 14 times, establishing himself as one of the league’s premier strikers. Meanwhile, Sávio contributed ten assists, and together, this dynamic duo played a pivotal role in securing Reysol’s place in the league for another season.
Keiya Shiihashi played a significant role in Reysol’s defense last season, which was not as poor as the standings might suggest. As a defensive midfielder, Shiihashi consistently intercepted threats during transitions, allowing Reysol to maintain a solid shape and get players back behind the ball.
However, with Shiihashi now transferring to Nagoya Grampus, Reysol faces a considerable gap in its lineup as it strives to prevent any decline in its defensive capabilities.
Kosuke Kinoshita has arrived from Kyoto Sanga, and his signing is a crucial step in fortifying Reysol’s attack, especially with Hosoya’s impending move to Europe.
As a rising star, Hosoya’s potential departure necessitates that Reysol find alternative sources of goals. Kinoshita has established himself as a competent J1 striker, offering Reysol a reliable option alongside Hosoya or serving as a versatile bench player for manager Masami Ihara.
While Reysol’s primary objective is to remain in the league, history indicates that teams emerging from relegation battles often rebound to finish in the top half of the standings. However, is this feasible for them this season?
Reysol has not been particularly aggressive in the transfer market, and with the top tier of J1 becoming increasingly competitive, it may be challenging for the Yellow and Black to set overly ambitious goals. Nevertheless, achieving a mid-table finish appears attainable, mainly if the team can find its rhythm.
Kashiwa’s forward line boasts impressive firepower, but the key to moving well beyond the relegation zone will likely hinge on transforming their already adequate defense into a truly formidable one.
Stand by your favorite team! Head to our site and let them know you’re with them all the way.
Football News Today | La Liga 2 | Saudi Pro League | Major League Soccer | J League | J League News | EFL Championship | Brazilian Serie A
Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and football sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Football News Today, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for football, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.
Stay Tuned With Updates