Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has undergone knee surgery, making him the third Gunners player to go under the knife in the past month. The 26-year-old Japan international announced his procedure on Instagram, stating that he had already begun his rehabilitation process. However, reports suggest he could be sidelined for the remainder of the season, dealing a significant blow to Arsenal’s squad depth.
Tomiyasu’s surgery adds to Arsenal’s growing injury concerns, with forward Gabriel Jesus and midfielder Kai Havertz also recently undergoing operations. The Gunners, currently seven points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, now face a critical period with a depleted squad as they continue their push for domestic and European success.
Since joining Arsenal from Bologna in 2021, Tomiyasu has been a reliable defensive option, showcasing his versatility across the backline. However, injuries have plagued his time at the Emirates, limiting his contributions. Last season, he managed 30 appearances across all competitions, but his current campaign has been severely hampered by fitness issues. So far, he has played just six minutes, coming on as a late substitute against Southampton in October.
Tomiyasu admitted that this has been the most challenging period of his career but expressed his determination to return stronger. “I’ve had surgery on my knee a few days ago and I’ve already started my rehab to do what I love the most again,” he wrote on Instagram. “It has been the toughest period in my career for sure and it carries on a bit more, but I won’t give up.”
Mikel Arteta’s squad has been hit hard by injuries this season, with several key players sidelined at various points. Gabriel Jesus, who has struggled with recurring fitness issues, recently underwent another operation, while Kai Havertz’s injury has further depleted the midfield options.
With Tomiyasu now out for an extended period, Arteta will have to rely heavily on Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Oleksandr Zinchenko to maintain defensive stability. Arsenal, who host West Ham United this Saturday, will need to navigate the coming weeks carefully to keep their Premier League title hopes alive.
Tomiyasu’s absence will also impact Japan’s national team as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures. His leadership and defensive capabilities have been crucial for his country, and his recovery timeline will be closely monitored by both club and country.
