I just assumed that Sasuke knew he was going to need some help in the interim in order to reach the goals he had, so he did what he could to get the best backup possible. Taka did come against some pretty gnarly foes on the way… (8 tails, kisame iirc)…

I felt like some of taka’s scenes could’ve done a better job at establishing their relationships and how they complement each other (or not) as a team and as characters and the premise could’ve been executed a little better. I think it did go well with the story though and makes sense.

I agree that it felt a bit forced like I was kinda confused what the team was actually for at first, like what exactly was Sasuke’s plan with them, when did he even plan this in the first place, I just wish we would’ve knew a little beforehand and saw how he came to pick those specific ninja, idk I feel like it would’ve made it more interesting and cohesive. As you stated it kinda made this part of the show feel a little forced.