Five months after parting ways with Arsenal by mutual agreement, Takehiro Tomiyasu appears ready to return to the pitch. The Japan international and the Gunners mutually agreed to terminate his contract in July, a decision prompted by the disappointment of enduring several serious injuries. Now, rumors from the Netherlands indicate that Eredivisie powerhouse Ajax is interested in bringing him on board.
A Promising Start at Arsenal
Tomiyasu joined Arsenal in 2021, arriving alongside players such as Ben White, Martin Ødegaard, and Aaron Ramsdale. He quickly made a name for himself. Notable for his performance on the right flank, Tomiyasu excelled as a one-versus-one specialist and was dominant in the air. Fans often marveled at his aerial prowess as if he had taken flying lessons.
On the ball, Tomiyasu was equally impressive. His ability to use both feet allowed him to deliver precise passes and whip in dangerous crosses into the box.
A Setback in His Career
Tomiyasu’s breakthrough performance came during a challenging match against Manchester City in 2022. Unfortunately, he was brought back too soon and stood tall against Raheem Sterling, resulting in a four-month injury layoff. This led to a frustrating cycle of calf and knee injuries, each setback keeping him away from the pitch for extended periods.
In the previous season, injuries limited him to just one appearance. His departure from Arsenal was marked by an emotional farewell from teammate William Saliba, highlighting Tomiyasu’s popularity in the locker room. For Arsenal’s fans, however, the recurring absences became wearisome, making his release seem necessary, albeit unfortunate.
Tomiyasu’s Versatility and Potential
When fully fit, Tomiyasu is the type of player every manager dreams of having. His versatility allows him to play comfortably across the back line, and he even has the technical skills to step into midfield when needed. Ajax, known for transforming defensive talents into world-class players, could serve as the perfect environment for him to rebuild his form and confidence.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has always spoken highly of Tomiyasu. He once said, “I love him. Everybody loves him. He’s one of the most popular in the dressing room.” Now, both Arteta and Arsenal supporters will be thrilled to see Tomiyasu making strides towards a return to the game he excels at.
Conclusion
As Takehiro Tomiyasu edges closer to a comeback, fans and analysts alike hope for a smooth transition back to competitive football. With Ajax potentially in the mix, the next chapter in his career is eagerly anticipated. Here’s hoping his return is as seamless as possible, marking the start of a new and exciting journey for this talented defender.