Ko Itakura’s Future at Ajax Uncertain as Borussia Mönchengladbach Seeks Return

It increasingly appears that Ko Itakura’s adventure at Ajax may be limited to just one season. According to BILD, his former club, Borussia Mönchengladbach, is eager to bring him back this summer. They had already expressed interest during the winter transfer window.

Itakura likely envisioned his time at Ajax differently when he transferred from Japan last summer for approximately eleven million euros. Although he managed to secure a starting position under John Heitinga, he has not yet solidified his place as an undisputed starter. This has remained the case even under Fred Grim, who initially deployed him as a defensive midfielder. Overall, the transfer to Amsterdam has yet to prove to be a significant success.

Furthermore, Ajax was adamant about retaining Itakura during the last transfer window, as reported by Mike Verweij from De Telegraaf. The technical staff and directors, Alex Kroes and Marijn Beuker, are determined to keep the 39-time capped Japanese international, especially as he prepares to compete against the Netherlands in the upcoming World Cup. Itakura is expected to play an important role in Ajax’s pursuit of securing second place in the Eredivisie, which grants direct entry into the Champions League.