Hiroki Ito vows to return strong after injury setback at Bayern Munich

Japanese defender Hiroki Ito (25, Bayern Munich) vowed to return robustly after completing his injury rehabilitation.

Ito stated on the 31st (Korean time) through his personal social media, "I cannot play this season due to injury. However, I will properly undergo rehabilitation training to come back for next season. This will not end because of injury and criticism. I still only want to play here."

He also added in English, "I will return to Allianz Arena (Munich's home stadium). I appreciate all your messages. Let's meet again soon." Ito's post received supportive comments from Bayern's official account and his teammates Aleksandar Pavlović, Thomas Müller, and Daniel Peretz.

Takehiro Tomiyasu, who plays alongside Ito in the Japanese national team, also left a flame emoji to show support. Tomiyasu has also struggled with injuries and has scarcely played for Arsenal this season, sharing mutual comfort with his teammate.

Ito sustained a metatarsal injury during the home game against St. Pauli in the 27th round of the 2023-2024 Bundesliga season on the 29th.

The following day, on the 30th, it was officially announced that "Ito has been diagnosed again with a metatarsal fracture. It is impossible for him to return this season." He had previously sustained an injury to the same area during a preseason match last summer, underwent surgery, and returned after about seven months, only to fall again.

Director General Max Eberl expressed, "The news of Ito's re-injury is a shock to us all," noting, "He returned after a long rehabilitation, but a long absence is inevitable once again."

He added, "Ito has fought like a warrior. His determination to return is strong. The club will always be by his side."

Ito began his career in the J-League and made his European debut in 2021 with a loan move to Stuttgart. In his first season, he played 31 matches, followed by 37 matches in the next season, establishing himself as a key defender. Last season, he participated in 29 matches due to Asian Cup participation and injuries. He demonstrated exceptional adaptability, playing both center-back and left-back, and is recognized as a defender with strong skills in buildup play, ball control, and passing.

However, facing this season with high expectations while donning a Bayern uniform, he has found himself once again focusing on rehabilitation due to consecutive injuries.

The possibility of Ito being out for the season has increased Kim Min-jae's burden. Already, Alfonso Davies, who was responsible for the left side defense, suffered a cruciate ligament injury during the March A-match period, leaving only Raphael Guerreiro as the remaining left-back option.

Dayot Upamecano, Kim Min-jae's partner, also sustained a knee joint injury during the A-match period. The schedule for his return has yet to be confirmed.

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