Arsenal Players

General Information

Takehiro Tomiyasu (born 5 November 1998) is a Japanese professional footballer who primarily plays as a right-back but is also capable of operating as a centre-back. Known for his versatility, tactical intelligence, and composure on the ball, Tomiyasu has made significant contributions to both his club and national team.

Early Life and Development
Born in Fukuoka, Japan, Tomiyasu began his football journey at a young age. He joined the youth academy of Avispa Fukuoka, a club based in his hometown, where he honed his skills before making his professional debut with the senior team in 2015. His performances in Japan’s J1 League caught the attention of European scouts, leading to his move abroad.

European Career
In 2018, Tomiyasu transferred to Belgian side Sint-Truiden, where he spent a season before moving to Serie A club Bologna in 2019. At Bologna, he further developed his defensive capabilities and versatility, establishing himself as a reliable and composed defender. His performances in Italy earned him a move to the Premier League.

Move to Arsenal (2021–2025)
In August 2021, Tomiyasu joined Arsenal for a reported fee of £17 million. He made an immediate impact, showcasing his adaptability and defensive prowess. Over the next few seasons, he became a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup, contributing both defensively and offensively when called upon.

Injury Challenges and Limited Appearances (2024–2025)
The 2024–25 season proved challenging for Tomiyasu due to injury setbacks. He sustained a knee issue during pre-season, which required surgery in February 2025. This injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season, limiting his appearances to just six minutes. Despite his efforts to recover, the injury persisted, affecting his playing time and contributions to the team.

Contract Termination and Departure from Arsenal (July 2025)
Given the ongoing nature of his injury and limited playing time, Arsenal and Tomiyasu mutually agreed to terminate his contract in July 2025. This decision marked the end of his tenure at the club, during which he made 65 appearances and scored two goals. Arsenal expressed gratitude for his contributions and wished him well in his future endeavors.

International Career
Tomiyasu has been a regular member of the Japan national team since 2018. He has represented his country in various international tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. His experience and leadership qualities have been valuable assets to the national team.

Playing Style
Known for his tactical awareness and versatility, Tomiyasu is capable of playing across various defensive positions. His ability to read the game, combined with his composure on the ball, allows him to contribute to both defensive stability and offensive build-up play. His adaptability makes him a valuable asset to any team.

Legacy and Future Outlook
While his time at Arsenal was marred by injury challenges, Tomiyasu’s contributions during his fit periods were significant. His versatility and professionalism have left a lasting impression. As of August 2025, he is focusing on recovery and exploring future opportunities in his footballing career.