Ko Itakura is a Japanese centre-back who plays for Ajax Amsterdam. At 29, he remains part of Japan's wider 2026 picture because he brings duel timing, recovery defending, and aerial control at both club and international level.
Kō Itakura was born on 27 January 1997 in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. He plays in Eredivisie and has 39 senior caps for Japan.
Early Life and Background
Birthplace, family, and youth football journey
Ko Itakura was born in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan, where his football development began before he moved into more structured academy football.
Club Career
Early clubs and development
Known for his ball-playing ability, versatility, and defensive anticipation, Itakura began his career in the J1 League with Kawasaki Frontale before moving to Europe in 2019.
After successful loan spells at FC Groningen and FC Schalke 04, he established himself in the Bundesliga with Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Current club and recent form
He has been with Ajax Amsterdam since 2025, and recent market tracking places him at around €10.00 million.
Ko Itakura - Stats and Performance
Ko Itakura's current season with Ajax stands at 14 appearances, 1 goals, and 0 assists in Eredivisie. For a defender, those numbers are best read through availability, role, and contribution from deeper areas rather than raw output alone.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025/2026 | Ajax | 14 | 1 | 0 |
The safest reading is that Ajax have trusted him regularly in Eredivisie, and the 14 appearances are the strongest indicator of current value. The goal and assist return adds context, but role security and match rhythm matter more here.
International Career
Caps, goals, and major tournaments
He has 39 caps and 2 goals for Japan in currently tracked records.
| National Team | Caps | Goals | Tournament Involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | 39 | 2 | Japan senior squad involvement |
Playing Style and Key Strengths
Position, role, and standout qualities
Ko Itakura plays as a centre-back and is valued for duel timing, recovery defending, and aerial control.
Personal Info and Profile
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Kō Itakura |
| Date of birth | 27 January 1997 |
| Age | 29 |
| Nationality | Japan |
| Height | 186 cm |
| Position | Centre-Back |
| Preferred foot | Right |
| Current club | Ajax Amsterdam |
| Jersey number | 4 |
| Weekly salary | €21,000 gross (approx.) |
| Estimated net worth | €6.00 million (approx. estimate) |
Transfer News and Market Value
Current transfer records show Ajax Amsterdam as his club heading into 2026, with the move dating from 2025.
Salary and Net Worth
Approximate salary estimates place Ko Itakura at about €21,000 gross (approx.) per week at Ajax Amsterdam. That works out to roughly €1,092,000 per year before bonuses.
Approximate net-worth estimates place him around €6.00 million.
FAQs
How old is Ko Itakura and what is his nationality?
Ko Itakura is 29 years old and he represents Japan.
Which club does Ko Itakura play for now?
He currently plays for Ajax Amsterdam.
What position does Ko Itakura play?
He plays as a centre-back.
Is Ko Itakura part of Japan's national-team picture?
Yes. With 39 caps currently listed, he remains part of Japan's wider selection picture.
What is Ko Itakura salary and market value?
Salary: €21,000 gross (approx.). Market value: €10.00 million.