Biography
Who is Kō Itakura?
Early life and career beginnings
Born in Yokohama, Japan, Kō Itakura began his path in professional football by joining the youth academy of Kawasaki Frontale in 2006. He moved through the different age levels of the club before making his senior debut on August 6, 2016, in a J1 League match against Ventforet Kofu. During his time with Kawasaki Frontale, he was part of the squad that secured the club's first-ever J1 League title in 2017.
Seeking more consistent playing time, he transferred to Vegalta Sendai for the 2018 season. During this loan spell, he became a regular starter, appearing in 24 league matches and scoring three goals. His performance throughout that year earned him the Tag Heuer Young Guns Award, highlighting his potential as a developing defensive talent in the Japanese league system.
Move to Europe and loan spells
In January 2019, Kō signed with the Premier League club Manchester City. Although he remained under contract, he did not play a competitive match for the team, instead spending his time gaining experience at various European clubs. He was immediately loaned to the Eredivisie side Groningen, where he adapted quickly to the technical nature of the Dutch league. He played every minute of the 2020–21 campaign until an injury forced him out, and his defensive work earned him the club's Player of the Year award for that season.
In August 2021, he joined the German club Schalke 04 on a season-long loan. He appeared in 31 league matches and scored four goals, playing a central role in the team's successful return to the Bundesliga. Despite his contributions and positive reception from fans, the club could not finalize a permanent purchase due to financial constraints.
Bundesliga and Ajax career
Kō Itakura signed a four-year contract with Borussia Mönchengladbach in July 2022. He became a regular starter, scoring his first goal for the club in a 4–4 draw against FC Augsburg in August 2023. He also famously scored a header against Bayern Munich shortly after. Despite dealing with ankle injuries that required surgery in October 2023, he remained a key defender for the squad.
In August 2025, he moved to the Dutch club Ajax on a four-year contract, becoming the first Japanese player to join their first team. He played 26 matches during the 2025–26 season, including his debut in the UEFA Champions League. In August 2026, he returned to Borussia Mönchengladbach by signing a new contract that runs until 2030, involving a transfer fee of €3.5 million.
International play and personal life
Kō has represented Japan internationally since making his senior debut against Uruguay on June 20, 2019. He was a member of the Japan squad for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and played a vital role during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His defensive contributions helped Japan defeat Germany, and media outlets including Marca and Sky Sport praised his consistent performance during the tournament. In May 2026, he was named captain of the Japan squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Regarding his personal life, Kō Itakura stands 186 centimeters tall. On August 3, 2026, the actress Haruna Kawaguchi announced via Instagram that she and Kō were married. She also shared the news that they are expecting their first child together.
Birthday and age
Kō Itakura was born on January 27, 1997, which makes Kō 29 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. Kō shares the date with 35 other famous people.
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