Japan Defender Kō Itakura Announces Marriage and Pregnancy
Japan's central defender Kō Itakura (29) officially announced his marriage to actress Haruna Kawaguchi and that they are expecting a child on August 2, 2026 via Instagram. He wore the captain's armband at the 2026 North America World Cup, helping the Samurai Blue reach the round of 32, marking a new personal chapter.
Why This News Captures Japanese Football Attention
Itakura, a Yokohama native, rose to the top team of Kawasaki Frontale in 2015 and built a European résumé, notably moving to Ajax-a rare path for a Japanese defender. His performance at the 2026 World Cup earned praise at home and abroad. The marriage and pregnancy are seen as a stabilizing factor that could benefit the national squad.
Current Samurai Blue Form and Itakura's Role
The Samurai Blue currently sit 2nd in World Cup qualifying with 5 points, a record of 1W‑2D‑0L, recent form LDWD. Their latest match on 2026-06-29 ended in a 2‑1 loss to Brazil, but Itakura remains a defensive cornerstone. The team has scored 7 goals and conceded 3, a +4 goal difference.
Future Outlook and Anticipated Impact
Itakura's personal milestones bring joy and may boost morale within the squad. His World Cup experience and leadership serve as a model for younger players, raising expectations for upcoming tournaments like the Asian Cup. Observers will watch how his family stability translates to on‑field performance.
