Takehiro Tomiyasu has spent the majority of this campaign out of action, which has left some Arsenal fans wondering about his place in the squad. Injuries have plagued the Japanese defender well beyond this season, and it’s frustrating for both the club and its supporters to see such a talented player unable to contribute consistently.
Tomiyasu could have been a valuable asset this season, especially during periods when Arsenal’s defensive options were limited. You might even be forgiven for thinking he hasn’t featured at all in this campaign. Surprisingly, he made a six-minute cameo against Southampton back in early October, which remains his only appearance to date.
Fans were given a rare glimmer of hope recently when Tomiyasu was spotted in a pre-derby video showcasing player arrivals at the Sobha Realty Training Centre. However, his absence from the subsequent training montage, which included other members of the squad, raised questions about his current condition. While the club has yet to make any formal statement about his readiness, Tomiyasu is likely training separately from the main group as part of a gradual return from injury.
If Tomiyasu is indeed edging closer to full fitness, it would provide a much-needed boost to Arsenal’s defensive depth. His versatility across the backline has always been a key strength, and a fully fit Tomiyasu could fill several gaps for Mikel Arteta’s side.
This report draws on recent speculation following Tomiyasu’s appearance in the pre-derby video, which has sparked cautious optimism among fans. However, until his involvement in full training is confirmed, it’s best not to get carried away.
BENJAMIN KENNETH
I think he will be used sparingly as sub, like Arteta has learned to do with Tierney. If we can keep those two on the bench it gives us good options for seeing games out, which is very important during the run in.
His versatility is great, however his injury record makes us useless. Time to cut ties with him in the summer.
The earlier we sell him off the better
Forgotten man is fitting alright,
Such a shame that he’s had such injury problems. Maybe he’ll at least be back fully fit and in form to shutdown Mo again when we go to Anfield on May 10.
Tomiyasu has been quality when he has played, but he has been injured too often and unavailable.
IMO he should prove his fitness the remainder of this season and the first half of next season. If he continues to be injury prone and unavailable, then he should be moved on next January.
In fact, I would make him a CB solely to rotate with Saliba and Gabriel hopefully to reduce all the injuries he gets while playing fullback.
I really like Tomiyasu, he’s skillful, great with both feet, can and has played in all the positions across the back four. Such a shame he’s had so many injuries since joining us and hoping he can stay fit as he’s a definite asset when fit. It just shows the intensity of the Premier League compared with other leagues in Europe.
Tomi, like KT, is a better footballer than Kwior, but he just cannot match him in terms of fitness.I suspect that Tomi and KT will be moved on at the end of the season and will unfortunately never fulfil their undoubted ability.
Almost “forgoten” indeed. Been a while, I wish him a quick recovery and an injury free spell afterwards.
Forgotten*
If were really lucky, we might get 5 no 10 minutes out of him.
And then he’ll get a twisted sock and be out for another two months.🙄🤦♂️