Tomiyasu Faces Long Absence After Second Knee Surgery

Arsenal defender, Takehiro Tomiyasu, is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing a second surgery on his troublesome right knee.

The 26-year-old initially suffered the injury during pre-season and, despite an initial procedure last August, continued to struggle upon his return. He made a brief comeback in October, but was forced back out of action after the issue persisted.

The Japanese international has endured persistent injury problems since joining Arsenal from Bologna in 2021, limiting him to just 65 English Premier League appearances. His latest setback has raised concerns that he may not feature again until next season, with some reports suggesting a potential return as late as 2026.

However, Tomiyasu remains determined to recover, sharing via Instagram his commitment to rehabilitation on Wednesday, 19 February, saying: “It has been the toughest period in my career for sure and it carries on a bit more, but I won’t give up.”

Arsenal, already dealing with injuries to key players Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, will now be without Tomiyasu for the foreseeable future.

His absence leaves coach Mikel Arteta with fewer defensive options as Arsenal continue their push for silverware. The club remains fully supportive of Tomiyasu’s recovery, with hopes that he can regain full fitness in the long term.

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