Ko Itakura

Ko Itakura, born on January 27, 1997, is a distinguished Japanese professional footballer who has made a name for himself as a centre-back and defensive midfielder. Currently, he plays for the prestigious Eredivisie club Ajax and represents the Japan national team.

Itakura's football journey began in the J1 League with Kawasaki Frontale, where he showcased his exceptional skills and versatility. In 2019, he took a significant step in his career by moving to Europe, where he quickly adapted to the competitive landscape of European football.

His time in Europe included successful loan spells at FC Groningen and FC Schalke 04, which allowed him to hone his craft and gain invaluable experience. Itakura's talent shone brightly in the Bundesliga, where he established himself with Borussia Mönchengladbach, earning recognition for his ball-playing ability and defensive anticipation.

In a historic move in 2025, Itakura became the first Japanese player to sign with Ajax, marking a significant milestone in his career and further solidifying his status as a key player in international football.