If you’re a fan of Blue Lock, you’ve probably wondered: who is Rin Itoshi based on? While the series’ creator, Muneyuki Kaneshiro, hasn’t officially tied Rin to a single real-life player, fans widely agree that his character draws inspiration from several modern football stars.
Rin’s cool, analytical playstyle and lethal left foot closely resemble Japanese football icon Shinji Kagawa. His precision passing and ability to read the pitch also echo the intelligence of players like Kevin De Bruyne. However, when it comes to personality and intensity, many fans compare him to Cristiano Ronaldo, thanks to his obsession with growth, rivalry, and becoming the best.
In short, Rin Itoshi isn’t based on one player, but rather a blend of elite attackers known for technique, vision, and a relentless drive to win. This mix helps shape Rin into one of Blue Lock’s most dynamic and compelling characters—both on and off the pitch.