Takehiro Tomiyasu gives three-word injury update as Arsenal stars send messages of support

Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has given an update on his return to fitness, as the Japanese international is still in search of a new club since his exit from the Gunners

Arsenal stars have shown their support for Takehiro Tomiyasu after the defender posted an update on his fitness on social media, as he continues to work towards a return to football. The defender has been plagued with injuries in recent seasons, which came as quite a blow given the positive start he had at the club.

A versatile option in the backline, Mikel Arteta often started him as a right-back, but was happy to play him in centre-back if required. However, the injury issues piled up for Tomiyasu, as he played just once in the Premier League last season, before suffering another problem.

With surgery required back in February, Arsenal agreed to a contract settlement in July which saw the defender leave as a free agent. Given the timeline of that injury, there is an expectation that, if all has gone to plan, Tomiyasu could be available again in the near future, wherever he may end up.

It’s been a difficult road to recovery for the Japanese international, who will still have the aim of featuring for his nation in next year’s World Cup. However, there may be some light at the end of the tunnel, with the latest post on his Instagram showing him continuing that recovery process.

A caption from the former Arsenal star reads: “Step by step.” And the comments were full of support from Arsenal fans and players alike.

William Saliba was one of those to send a message, as he said: “My guy.” Arsenal loanee Oleksandr Zinchenko also commented: “Yes Tomi,” while Eddie Nketiah simply added a heart emoji in response.

Arsenal fans will certainly be rooting for Tomiyasu to get back to full fitness and thrive wherever he ends up moving next. The defender made 79 appearances for the club following his move from Bologna in 2021, part of a backline that started to cement Arteta’s playstyle into place.

The injuries clearly hampered how much time he managed to get, with a heartfelt message sent to fans after he left the club in the summer. He said: “After 4 unforgettable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to this incredible club.

“Obviously, I have got many things to say, but the thing that I want to tell you guys the most is just thank you for the love you guys gave me. I was so happy to be here with my teammates, Mikel, the coaching staff, supporting staff, everyone who was around me in this club.

“From my first day at the Emirates to every moment wearing the red and white, it has truly been an honour to represent this badge. To the supporters, thank you for the love you’ve been giving me on and off the pitch. I will never forget it, and it will stay in me forever.

“To the teammates, I’m so happy that we’ve shared many memories with you guys, because I know how good you guys are, not only as a player but as a person. I’m looking forward to seeing each of you guys ON the pitch soon.

“It’s time for a new chapter, but I’m forever proud to have been a Gunner. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner. ARIGATO and all the best, Tomi.”

It’s clear just how difficult that road to recovery has been for Tomiyasu, but with a possible end in sight to the injury nightmare, there could be brighter days ahead. It remains to be seen where he could end up next and whether he can get back into the fold for the national team and keep himself fit in the process.