There is another red light on Bayern Munich's defensive lineup. Japan national team defender Hiroki Ito (Bayern Munich) is facing a long-term absence due to recurring injuries, highlighting the need for defensive reinforcement.

Germany's RAN reported on the 2nd (Korean time) that "Ito may not return until 2026. Bayern's defensive operation plans are currently in disarray."

It also noted, "Ito's recovery outlook is extremely uncertain, and it is difficult to be optimistic about a return in the next season."

Ito joined Bayern Munich last summer after leaving Stuttgart in the transfer market. Originally recruited for defensive reinforcement, he was expected to compete with Min-jae Kim, but in reality, he finds himself in a situation where participation is difficult, disrupting those plans.

Ito suffered a metatarsal fracture during the preseason and only made his Bayern debut last February after a long rehabilitation. However, his return did not last long.

After just a few matches, he sustained another injury to the same area during the match against St. Pauli in March, resulting in a season-ending diagnosis. The problem is that this time the metatarsal injury has recurred. Frequent re-injuries are adversely affecting not only the player's career but also the club's defensive operations.

RAN reported, "Ito's current condition is even difficult to predict. The injured area is repeatedly damaged, making it challenging to pinpoint a precise return date. The club is not even certain if he will return within 2025, and a long-term absence appears inevitable."

It also warned, "Ito's repeated metatarsal injuries must be handled with extreme caution. If the recovery process is pushed even slightly, the injury could recur, which could have serious implications for the player's career."

Ito's departure is directly impacting Bayern's management of defensive resources.

As the possibility of Eric Dier's transfer increases, the uncertainty regarding Ito's return means that the burden on Min-jae Kim may once again be heightened. Since the beginning of this season, Kim has been embroiled in controversy over excessive playtime and has had to shoulder the defense due to the ongoing departures of fellow defenders.

Bayern is currently considering several center back options, including Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen) and Ronald Araújo (Barcelona) for recruitment. Additionally, multiple scenarios to reinforce the defense are being contemplated, and active movements in the summer transfer market are expected.

Bild reported on the 1st that "Bayern Munich is prioritizing Japan national team player Ko Itakura, who is currently active at Borussia Mönchengladbach, as a main target for recruitment, and negotiations with the club have already begun."

Itakura is reportedly not accepting the re-contracting proposal offered by the club, as he approaches the expiration of his contract, and Borussia Mönchengladbach is believed to be open to selling him in the transfer market.

Itakura, a defender who stands at 188 cm, is known for his aerial abilities and strengths in one-on-one defenses. He is also highly regarded for his ability in build-up play and forward passing, and he can escape pressure with direct breakthroughs. However, he has shown vulnerabilities in space coverage during high-line operations, indicating the need for strategic adjustments.

Having moved to Europe from Kawasaki Frontale in 2019, Itakura signed with Manchester City but quickly gained experience with Groningen and Schalke. He is currently establishing himself as a core defender at Borussia Mönchengladbach, and it is reported that both Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are keeping their options open for a transfer.

However, Bayern Munich's defensive strengthening is not expected to conclude with Itakura alone.

Ultimately, Ito's long-term absence is acting as a stumbling block in the club's overall defensive plans. Unless there are sudden changes in the defense, it seems difficult to avoid placing excessive responsibility once again on Min-jae Kim.

[OSEN]