Takehiro Tomiyasu shares the truth about exit from Arsenal

Japan international Takehiro Tomiyasu in a recent statement cleared the air about his exit from Arsenal in the summer transfer window.

According to Tomiyasu, his departure from Arsenal was not a sudden or forced move.

He confirmed that he left the Gunners on a mutual decision reached after discussions with the club.

Tomiyasu’s contract ended earlier this month, with both parties concluding that the termination was in the best interest of the player and the team.

The Japanese made one brief appearance during the 2024/25 season, a five-minute cameo before he was sidelined by a knee injury that later needed surgery.

In a statement via DAZN’s FOOTBALL TIME (via Goal Japan), he explained that a year of rehabilitation, stress, and uncertainty took a toll on him.

“I wasn’t feeling like I was there anymore,” he said. “I was asking myself, ‘Is this where my future is?’”

Before his exit, the Japanese had a year left on his contract but felt it was time for a new start, both mentally and physically.

He debunked claims of conflict, emphasising that the decision to part ways was done respectfully.

Tomiyasu moved to Arsenal from Bologna in 2021, making 84 appearances across four seasons.

Injury, however, limited his game time at the Emirates.