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Former Arsenal star just hit free agency at only 27 years old - He'll be at the World Cup

This player will still be at the World Cup despite no longer having a club team.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal | David Price/GettyImages

Former Arsenal player Takehiro Tomiyasu has been released by Ajax. However, all is not lost as he has still been included in Japan's roster for the World Cup.

If Tomiyasu is not able to sign for a new club before the tournament, then the World Cup will be a perfect opportunity for him to showcase his talents.

Tomiyasu began his career in Japan with Avispa Fukuoka before joining the Belgian side Sint-Truidense. He then went to Bologna before joining the Gunners. The defender helped the Gunners win the Community Shield in 2023, but he was left on the bench as Mikel Arteta's side beat Manchester City on penalties in that game.

The right-back played 84 times for Arsenal, scoring two goals and providing six assists. His time with the Gunners was disrupted by multiple injuries, and he had to have knee surgery. Highs would have been his two Premier League goals, which came against Sheffield United and Everton.

Takehiro Tomiyasu is remembered fondly by Arsenal fans

His contract with Arsenal was mutually terminated last summer. He then spent time without a club before joining Ajax in December. Tomiyasu played nine games in total for Ajax, helping them win the Eredivisie playoffs. He even provided an assist in the final against Utrecht.

Following his release from the Dutch side, Tomiyasu posted on Instagram, "Hi Ajax fans, it was only 5 months, but I would like to thank you all who support Ajax. Obviously, it was not a season we wanted to make, and no one was satisfied with the place we ended. Personally, I joined this club in January after such a long rehab, I wanted to give many more things, I should have done much more for this club, but it didn’t work out well.

This club has so many talented players made by Ajax, and I’m convinced that this club will bounce back to where it belongs. Thank you, and all the best to the players and the staff, it was a pleasure to work with. And finally, thank you for the funs. I won’t forget your warm welcome and support. Thank you again, and might see you in the future somewhere!!"

Tomiyasu is no doubt still valued by the Arsenal fanbase. The X account afcnewsroom responded to his post saying, "The Arsenal family wishes you all the best on your next journey. Some of our fans would love to see you return to the club one day as well."

The player is only 27 and versatile; he can play right-back, left-back, and as a central defender. If he can prove his fitness, then he could be a valuable player for a club. It remains to be seen where he goes next.

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