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

The moment everyone's been waiting for has finally arrived. The first few training sessions under new Italian coach Francesco Farioli took some getting used to for many Ajax players, but today there was one moment that instantly lifted the spirits. Ko Itakura, the unshakeable rock in defence, stepped back onto the training pitch at De Toekomst. For anyone with Ajax at heart, this was the best news in weeks.

The Japanese international moved effortlessly, joined in with the group drills, and immediately showed his class. No more cautious steps—it was full-on sprints and sharp tackles. It was as if he'd never been away. And that's exactly the signal fans were waiting for: Ko Itakura, the backbone of the team, is standing tall once again!

A leader returns

For a while, it was uncertain whether the defender would be fit in time for the crucial phase of the season. After a nasty injury, he had to miss the first few training sessions under Farioli. But anyone who saw him in action today knows: this is going to be a massive boost for the entire squad. Itakura isn't just any defender; he's the glue that holds everything together. His leadership, his dominance in the air, and that incredible composure on the ball—it's exactly what Ajax needs right now.

With Farioli at the helm, defence is once again a focal point of training. The Italian coach is known for his tactical precision and preference for a strong spine. And who fits that bill better than Itakura? The Japanese star is the ideal link between defence and midfield. His return immediately raises the stakes and pushes the competition.

What does this mean for the starting eleven?

Now that Itakura is back in training, Farioli has a welcome headache. The coach can finally field what he envisions as his strongest eleven. Here are the key benefits of his return:

• Backline stability: No more panic on high balls—Itakura wins almost every aerial duel.
• Build-up play: He calmly clears the ball from danger and starts attacks with crisp passes.
• International experience: As a regular for Japan, he brings invaluable experience for European matches.
• Winning mentality: His relentless work ethic rubs off on the younger players around him.

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