Pre-Wedding Horse Suki Shabu Dinner Celebrates Gaku Shibasaki and Erika Mano’s First Child with Date Photos

“Recently welcomed their first child.”

On July 8th, actor Erika Mano (33) updated her own social media to announce the birth of her first child.

“My husband is also busy with daily practices and games, but I’m truly grateful that he was there with me!”

She also mentioned that her husband, Gaku Shibasaki (32), who plays for J-League’s “Kashima Antlers,” was there to support her during the birth.

“They met through a mutual acquaintance in 2016 and dated for a year and a half before marrying in 2018 after the conclusion of the Russia World Cup. Right after their marriage, Mano immediately moved to Spain to support Shibasaki, who was playing for Getafe CF at the time. Their wedding ceremony and reception were held in July 2019.” (according to a soccer magazine editor)

 

“FRIDAY” had reported on their appearance two days before their wedding ceremony. 

 

It was the night of July 12, 2019. The couple walked through the bustling downtown area of Tokyo, dressed casually without any disguise. After a while, Mano hailed a taxi, and they arrived after a 10-minute ride at a renowned restaurant known for its horse meat “sakura shabu-shabu”. A male acquaintance joined them, and the three entered the restaurant together. When they left, Shibasaki appeared cool and impassive, while Mano seemed satisfied, beaming with a smile.

“Two days later, on July 14, 2019, their wedding reception was held at a hotel in Tokyo. Former Hello! Project members and colleagues from Mano’s past, including Kiyotaka Minamihara from ‘Ucchan Nanchan,’ attended. Video messages from Keisuke Honda and Makoto Hasebe were played, and a letter from Aya Matsuura was read aloud.

 

Furthermore, it was announced on the day of the reception that Shibasaki would be transferring to Deportivo La Coruña in the Spanish Segunda División on a four-year contract. The reception was reportedly lively and celebratory.” (according to a sports newspaper reporter) 

 

In September 2023, Gaku Shibasaki returned to Kashima Antlers after seven years, but has struggled with injuries, affecting his ability to play satisfactorily. Despite this, his return has been welcomed with joy by Kashima fans, who have sent him many congratulations and words of encouragement such as “Congratulations! Keep pushing at Kashima” and “We’re counting on you, Dad.” 

In a post shared by Mano on social media, there’s a photo showing the newborn baby holding the hands of Mano and Shibasaki. The birth of their baby will surely give Shibasaki new strength.