Riku Handa is a Japanese defender from Yamagata. He developed at Montedio Yamagata and became a first-team player while still young, then moved to Gamba Osaka. Handa has represented Japan at several youth levels and was selected for Olympic-age squads. Usually deployed at right-back, he combines defensive work with forward support. His career has progressed from a hometown J2 club to a major J1 side while remaining in Japan's national youth setup.