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| Arsenal Officially Terminates Takehiro Tomiyasu’s Contract Early After Persistent Injury Struggles Over Four Seasons. |
After four challenging years at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal and Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu have officially parted ways. The Premier League club and the 25-year-old have mutually agreed to terminate his contract ahead of schedule due to ongoing injury concerns.
Tomiyasu’s original deal was supposed to run through the end of the 2025 season. However, recurring injuries—especially serious knee issues—have heavily impacted his availability and performance in recent years. These physical setbacks ultimately led both sides to a mutual decision to end their partnership early.
Tomiyasu joined Arsenal from Italian side Bologna in August 2021 and quickly became a fan favorite due to his work rate and versatility. But consistent injuries prevented him from maintaining a regular spot in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI. Over the past two years, he underwent multiple surgeries and missed significant game time, including a long spell on the sidelines at the start of the 2024–25 campaign. Following another setback in February, he was ruled out for an estimated five additional months.
In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, Tomiyasu expressed his gratitude to the club and its fans:
“After four unforgettable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to this incredible club. I have so many things I could say, but the most important is just thank you. I’ve been so happy to be here with my teammates, Mikel [Arteta], the coaching staff, the support staff—everyone who’s been part of this journey with me.
From my first day at the Emirates to every moment wearing red and white, it’s truly been an honor to represent this badge. To the supporters, thank you for all the love, both on and off the pitch. I’ll carry it with me forever.
It’s time for a new chapter, but I’ll always be proud to have been a Gunner. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner.”
Tomiyasu made a total of 84 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal. However, he featured only once in the 2024–25 season, playing just six minutes.
With Tomiyasu’s departure, Arsenal is now actively exploring options to strengthen its defensive lineup. One of their reported targets is Valencia center-back Cristhian Mosquera, as the club looks to reinforce its backline for the remainder of the campaign and beyond.
While Tomiyasu’s time at Arsenal didn’t unfold as hoped due to unfortunate injuries, his commitment and professionalism left a lasting impression. As he prepares for a new chapter in his career, Arsenal fans around the world will surely wish him the best.
