Live99soccer: Tomiyasu Still Several Weeks Away from His Return to Arsenal

Live99soccer – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the fitness of Japanese international defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, indicating that the versatile right-back is still several weeks away from making his return to action. Tomiyasu has been sidelined since March 2024 after suffering a significant injury during a UEFA Europa League match, and his absence has been keenly felt by the Gunners.

Tomiyasu’s Impact at Arsenal

Since joining Arsenal from Bologna in the summer of 2021, Takehiro Tomiyasu has quickly established himself as a fan favorite and a key player in Arteta’s squad. The 25-year-old defender is known for his versatility, having played as a right-back, center-back, and even occasionally as a left-back for the team. His defensive solidity, composure on the ball, and ability to contribute to the attack have made him an integral part of Arsenal’s defense.

Tomiyasu’s impact was immediate upon his arrival, as he helped to stabilize Arsenal’s defense during a period of transition. His presence on the right side of the defense provided balance and allowed other players, such as Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, to flourish in more advanced roles. Tomiyasu’s work ethic and commitment have also endeared him to the Arsenal faithful, who appreciate his no-nonsense approach to defending.

The Injury Setback

Tomiyasu’s 2023-2024 season was disrupted by injuries, with the most significant setback occurring in March 2024. The Japanese defender sustained a serious knee injury during a Europa League clash against Sporting CP, which forced him to undergo surgery and ruled him out for the remainder of the season. The injury was a major blow to Arsenal’s campaign, as Tomiyasu’s absence left a void in the defense that was difficult to fill.

Arsenal struggled to maintain consistency in the latter stages of the season without Tomiyasu, particularly in the Premier League, where they were battling for a top-four finish. While players like Ben White and Kieran Tierney stepped up in his absence, Tomiyasu’s unique qualities were sorely missed, particularly in matches against top opposition. (Live99soccer)

Arteta’s Update and the Road to Recovery

During a recent press conference ahead of Arsenal’s opening fixture of the 2024-2025 Premier League season, Mikel Arteta provided an update on Tomiyasu’s recovery. Arteta confirmed that while the defender is making good progress in his rehabilitation, he is still “several weeks away” from being ready to return to full training and match action.

“Takehiro is working hard every day, and we are pleased with the progress he’s making,” Arteta said. “However, we have to be cautious and ensure that he fully recovers before he returns to the pitch. We don’t want to rush him back too soon and risk a setback. It’s important that he takes the time he needs to get back to full fitness.”

Arteta’s cautious approach is understandable, given the severity of Tomiyasu’s injury and the demands of the Premier League. The manager emphasized the importance of having a fully fit Tomiyasu for the long season ahead, particularly as Arsenal will be competing in multiple competitions, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.

Arsenal’s Defensive Options

In Tomiyasu’s absence, Arsenal has had to rely on other defensive options to fill the void. Ben White, who was primarily used as a center-back, has been deployed as a right-back, a role he is familiar with from his time at Brighton & Hove Albion. White’s versatility has been crucial for Arteta, but the team has also experimented with different formations to cope with the loss of Tomiyasu. (Live99soccer)

New signing Ivan Fresneda, who joined Arsenal from Real Valladolid in the summer of 2024, has also been integrated into the squad. Fresneda, a highly-rated young right-back, has impressed in pre-season and is expected to compete for the starting spot in Tomiyasu’s absence. The 19-year-old’s ability to get forward and contribute to the attack, combined with his defensive awareness, makes him an exciting prospect for the future.

Additionally, Arsenal has the option of using Cedric Soares, who has been with the club since 2020. While Cedric has primarily been a squad player, his experience and reliability could prove valuable as Arsenal navigates the early part of the season without Tomiyasu. (Live99soccer)