Takehiro Tomiyasu OUT for remainder of the season with knee injury

Takehiro Tomiyasu will miss the rest of the 2022/23 season after undergoing surgery on his right knee, the club has confirmed. 

The Japanese international limped off early on in Arsenal’s Europa League round of 16 second leg against Sporting CP after getting his leg caught in the Emirates turf. It was a freakish incident, but one that’s cost Tomiyasu the remainder of what could be a special campaign for the Gunners.

Ben White’s consistency at right-back has forced Tomiyasu into a bit-part role this term. The former Bologna defender impressed in his debut season at the club before injuries took their toll, and his second season will be looked back upon with frustration despite the team’s success.

Takehiro Tomiyasu OUT for remainder of the season with knee injury

The signs were ominous when Tomiyasu was pictured leaving the Emirates on crutches in the wake of their Europa League exit. Many suspected his knee injury would keep him out of action for a prolonged period, and the club confirmed on Tuesday that he underwent successful surgery.

Arsenal’s brief statement read: “Following his substitution during last Thursday’s Europa League match, subsequent assessments have confirmed that Takehiro Tomiyasu sustained a significant injury to his right knee.

“Tomi has had successful surgery in London on Tuesday and will be ruled out for the remainder of this season.

“Everyone at the club will now be working hard with Tomi, so he can join pre-season training ahead of next season,” they concluded.

While Tomiyasu hasn’t played a prominent role this season, his injury means that Arsenal are solely reliant on White at right-back for the rest of the campaign after Cedric Soares was loaned to Fulham in January.

The full extent of Tomi’s injury hasn’t been disclosed, but he’ll likely return to action over the summer. Get well soon, big man!