Borussia Mönchengladbach's move to bring back Ko Itakura creates a specific defensive issue for the Bundesliga club. According to a 90min report from Wednesday, the Japanese international is set for a return, but the upcoming AFC Asian Cup threatens the planned starting partnership with Kevin Diks.
What is Gladbach's current defensive situation?
The depth in central defence is currently thin for manager Eugen Polanski. Nico Elvedi is reportedly close to a move to Leeds United. While 19-year-old Jan Leszczynski has made a good impression, he is still considered too young for a permanent starting role. This would make Itakura and summer signing Kevin Diks the most experienced pairing. The current squad overview shows Gladbach has only one other centre-back under 23 besides Leszczynski. The team sits 9th in the standings after seven matchdays but has already conceded 11 goals.
Which matches could Itakura and Diks miss?
The AFC Asian Cup runs from early January to early February 2027. Both Japan with Itakura and Indonesia with Diks are qualified. If both teams progress past the group stage, which is likely for title contenders Japan, the defenders could miss up to six Bundesliga matches. The minimum would be four games, starting with the fixture against FC Bayern on matchday 15. The group stage doesn't end until January 20th, making immediate availability the following weekend nearly impossible. A look at the fixtures shows a challenging period with games against Bayern, Hoffenheim, and Freiburg right in this window.
Is there a solution to the problem?
According to an update by the Rheinische Post on Thursday evening, Itakura has already signaled to the club's management that he wants to skip the Asian Cup and stay with the team. Should this step be confirmed, the 28-year-old would be available for the critical phase. This decision would be significant for the player, as the Asian Cup is a prestigious tournament. For Gladbach, it would be a major relief, allowing them to field the newly formed duo. The injuries list is fortunately short at the moment, allowing for additional options in defensive midfield.
What does this mean for Eugen Polanski's planning?
Manager Polanski must work through his tactical options for January well in advance. If Itakura and Diks are indeed absent, Jan Leszczynski moves into focus. An alternative would be switching to a back three, for which the existing full-backs are suited. The coming weeks until the winter break will be crucial for rehearsing backup solutions. The club management has already reacted by signing Diks and planning the return of Itakura to stabilise the defence long-term. Last season's finish in 10th place highlighted the need for action in defence.
The next steps are now clear. Gladbach will await official confirmation of the Itakura transfer details and simultaneously intensify talks with the players about their national team commitments in January. Planning security ahead of a difficult second half of the season is the primary objective.
