Ko Itakura back on the training pitch: Ajax's rock-solid defender stands tall again

The moment we've all been waiting for has finally arrived. The first few training sessions under new Italian coach Francesco Farioli took some getting used to for plenty of Ajax players, but today there was one moment that immediately lifted the spirits. Ko Itakura, that unshakeable rock in defence, was back out on the training pitches at De Toekomst. For anyone who holds Ajax close to their heart, this was the best news in weeks.

The Japanese international was moving smoothly, took part in full team drills and showed his class straight away. No more tentative steps—this was full sprints and crisp tackles. It was like he'd never been away. And that's exactly the sign the fans were waiting for: Ko Itakura, that rock-solid presence, is standing tall once again!

The return of a leader

There had been plenty of uncertainty about whether the defender would be fit in time for this crucial stretch of the season. After a nasty injury, he had to sit out the first few training sessions under Farioli. But anyone who saw him out there today knows: this is going to give the whole squad a massive boost. Itakura isn't just any defender; he's the glue that holds everything together. His leadership, his strength in the air, and that incredible composure on the ball—this is exactly what Ajax needs right now.

With Farioli at the helm, defence is front and centre of the training approach again. The Italian coach is known for his tactical precision and his focus on a strong spine. And who better to fit that mould than Itakura? The Japanese star is the perfect link between defence and midfield. His return means the competition for spots is well and truly on.

What does this mean for the starting XI?

Now that Itakura is back in full training, Farioli has a welcome headache. The coach can finally line up his strongest possible eleven. Here are the key benefits of his return:

• Defensive stability: No more panic when high balls come in—Itakura wins just about every aerial duel.
• Build-up play: He calmly clears the danger zone and launches attacks with crisp passing.
• International experience: As a regular for Japan, he brings match-hardened know-how that's pure gold in European fixtures.
• Winning mentality: His relentless work rate rubs off on the younger players around him.

Now it's up to Farioli to decide whether to throw the Japanese defender straight back into the starting line-up, or give him a bit more time to fully hit his peak. But if the fans had their way, Ko Itakura will be right back out there with the starting eleven come Sunday. Because when this rock stands firm, the whole team feels it. Ajax can build on its foundations once more.