Takehiro Tomiyasu Shares Emotional Message Months After Arsenal Contract Termination
Following the termination of Takehiro Tomiyasu’s contract with Arsenal, the versatile defender shared an emotional message on social media. The Japan international joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2021 and quickly became a fan favorite at the Emirates Stadium due to his strong performances on the pitch.
Tomiyasu’s Arsenal Journey
Tomiyasu’s tenure at Arsenal spanned four seasons, during which he showcased his ability to excel in various defensive positions. His skills included strong aerial ability, excellent game reading, and proficiency in one-on-one situations. These traits made him a valuable asset for the team.
Challenges with Injuries
Unfortunately, injuries plagued Tomiyasu throughout his career in North London. In the preseason of 2024, a serious knee injury sidelined him for three months. He made a return in October, only to suffer another setback on the same knee. This injury saga has kept him out of action for over a year.
Contract Termination and Future Aspirations
In July, Arsenal and Tomiyasu mutually agreed to terminate his contract, leaving him a free agent. Despite his circumstances, Tomiyasu remains optimistic. In a recent Instagram post, he expressed his desire to return to the pitch, stating, “I just want to come back soon! I want to play football! That’s all! I’ll do it.”
Tomiyasu’s Injury Statistics
During his time at Arsenal, Tomiyasu dealt with multiple injuries that severely impacted his playing time. Here are some key statistics:
| Injury Type | Games Missed | Days Missed |
|---|---|---|
| Calf Injury | 11 | 61 |
| Muscular Injury | 4 | 13 |
| Knee Injury | 16 | 108 |
| Calf Injury | 6 | 28 |
| Calf Injury | 7 | 45 |
| Knee Injury | 9 | 133 |
| Knee Injury | 2 | 91 |
| Knee Surgery | 19 | 225 |
In total, Tomiyasu missed 101 games and spent 690 days recovering from his injuries. This record highlights the unfortunate impact injuries had on his Arsenal career.
Looking Ahead
As Tomiyasu navigates this challenging period, fans and analysts alike hope he finds a new club and regains his fitness. When fully operational, he possesses the potential to be a top-class defender, contributing significantly to any team.
