After a medical setback, Ryotaro Ito finally finds refuge at Valladolid

After three months of suspense, Japanese attacking midfielder Ryotaro Ito, who shone in the Pro League with Sint‑Truiden (10 goals and 7 assists in 37 matches), saw his Blackburn Rovers project collapse before signing with Valladolid. The contrast between the medical setback and the completion of the Spanish contract nicely illustrates the end of a saga.

His last season in the Pro League was exceptional: 10 direct contributions in 37 games, a contribution rate that made him one of the best players in the league. Those performances attracted the attention of several clubs, including Gent and English teams.

An exceptional Pro League season

In addition to his 10 goals, Ito provided 7 assists, helping Sint‑Truiden secure a spot in the Europa League play‑offs and qualify for the Conference League. His contract with the Belgian club ended in the summer, leaving him free to choose his future.

The transfer to Blackburn cancelled

Blackburn Rovers had announced their intention to sign the player until 2029, but the medical exam revealed an ankle problem deemed too concerning. The club therefore declared the Deal OFF, as reported by Sacha Tavolieri, and immediately withdrew its offer.

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Following this setback, Ito spent September without a club, despite persistent rumors linking him to Gent, which he ultimately turned down.

New start at Valladolid

Eventually, the player signed with Real Valladolid, competing in the Spanish Segunda División, with a contract lasting until the end of the season. This decision ends a period of uncertainty and opens the door to a new challenge in Europe.

In total, Ito played 110 matches for Sint‑Truiden, scoring 19 goals and providing 14 assists over three seasons, with the last one being decisive for the club's European project.

A Japanese international, he has only one cap for the Blue Samurai, earned in 2024, and now hopes to revive his career in Spain after the turbulent spell in Belgium and England.