Takehiro Tomiyasu had a year left to run on his Arsenal contract
Arsenal Football Newsletter
The Japan international had one year remaining on his current contract, but he and Arsenal have agreed to part ways early.
Tomiyasu managed just one appearance last season after being troubled by a knee injury. The defender came off the bench against Southampton in October of last year to play the final six minutes.
In a statement on Friday, Arsenal said: “We have reached a mutual agreement with Takehiro Tomiyasu to end his contract with immediate effect.
“Unfortunately, injuries have limited Tomi’s time on the pitch in the past two seasons, with the defender making just one substitute appearance last season. It was therefore mutually agreed to end Tomi’s contract in order for him to start a new chapter in his career.
“Everyone at Arsenal Football Club would like to thank Tomi for his contribution to the club and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Tomiyasu joined Arsenal from Bologna in the summer of 2021, arriving as part of a deal worth around £16million.
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He went on to make 22 appearances during his first season and over 30 in the following two campaigns.
Tomiyasu, however, was routinely troubled by injuries during his time at Arsenal, which stopped him fulfilling his potential.
Takehiro Tomiyasu was brought to Arsenal by Mikel Arteta
The defender was a valued member of the squad by manager Mikel Arteta, who appreciated his versatility, and he was rewarded with a new contract in March 2024.
“I always say that I’m really confident the moment Tomi has consistency, because it’s going to be a tremendous asset for us,” said Arteta in September 2023.
“His defending is probably one of the best that I’ve seen in many situations. When Tomi is at his best, we’re going to have a player who is going to be so important for us.
“He can play in any position in the backline, any formation in the backline - we don’t have a player like him.”