Japanese defender Ko Itakura has officially returned to Borussia Mönchengladbach following his time with Ajax Amsterdam, the Bundesliga club confirmed on Thursday (August 14, 2026).
According to the announcement from Borussia Mönchengladbach, Itakura will continue with the club after his transfer stint in the Netherlands concluded. The 29-year-old has been a key figure in Japan's defense at recent World Cups, and his return to the Bundesliga is seen as an important step in preparation for upcoming international campaigns.
Itakura joined Ajax on a permanent transfer, but contractual terms allowed him to return to Mönchengladbach after his time in the Netherlands ended. His comeback bolsters the squad depth of the German side ahead of the new season, bringing seasoned international experience to the backline.
The club has not yet disclosed details of his new contract duration or any associated fees, but confirmed Itakura is ready to train with the team in the coming days. With his sharp reading of the game and effective one-on-one defending, he is expected to quickly re-establish himself in Borussia's starting lineup.
