Bayern Munich's Japanese defender Hiroki Ito is expected to miss two to three months due to a fractured metatarsal bone.
"Ito is expected to be absent for two to three months. He fractured his metatarsal bone in his right foot," said Florian Flettenberg, who is familiar with the Munich news.
Ito is a Japanese national football defender. He started his European career with Japan's Jubilo Iwata and Nagoya Grampus before transferring to Stuttgart, Germany on loan ahead of the last 2021-22 season.
It was his first season in Europe, but he didn't need time to adjust. He scored one goal and one assist in 31 games, and recognized his performance. Stuttgart has been satisfied with Ito's performance and has decided to completely recruit him. Over the past two seasons, he played 66 games as a starting defender.
Munich, which is reorganizing its defense, showed interest in Ito. Tottenham Hotspur also expressed their intention to recruit, but Ito's choice was Munich. "I'm honored to play for one of the biggest clubs in the world," he said through the club. 메이저놀이터
He continued, "The name Munich is gaining a good reputation in Japan as well. I always did my best at Stuttgart. I am grateful to the club. Now I am looking forward to the challenge in Munich. I want to contribute to winning many championships. It is time to take a new step, and Munich is the perfect club for me."
Munich also looked forward to Ito's performance. "He has consistently displayed high level of performance while playing for Stuttgart for three years. He can play center defense, left-side defense, and defensive midfielder. He left a strong impression on his tackle and outstanding build-up."
"In 26 Bundesliga matches last season, Ito received 16 fouls and only one yellow card. He also ranked in the top 10 with 90.4 percent pass success rate. He also gave assist to goals twice."
"We are very happy to have Ito. We wanted a hungry player who could bring new energy. Ito is equipped with everything we want. He is a player who accepts and overcomes challenges and constantly builds his own path. Having gained a lot of experience, he can handle the pressure well," said Munich's Max Eberle.
"Ito was a byword for trust in Stuttgart. He attracted our attention because he consistently displayed top-notch performances. He is tall, aggressive, and has strong left feet. He is excellent in pass games and is a versatile player. I am confident that he still has more potential," said Christopher Freund, the Munich team's general manager.
However, Ito suffered an unexpected injury. Munich drew 1-1 with Duren in a pre-season friendly match held at Karl Kniprad Stadion in Ulrich, Germany on the 28th.
Ito, who started the day, collapsed in the 22nd minute of the first half, complaining of pain in his foot. Medical staff were rushed in, but it was not an injury that would end with first aid. The test result showed that he was diagnosed with a metatarsal fracture.
He is unlikely to be able to play for the time being. "Ito is expected to be absent for two to three months. He suffered a fractured metatarsal on his right foot," Plettenberg said.