Arsenal star Takehiro Tomiyasu has undergone an operation on his knee and will miss the remainder of the campaign. The Japan defender has played just six minutes of football this season, coming on as a late substitute in the Premier League win over Southampton in October, following a three-month recovery from a knee injury that saw him miss the start of the season.
Mail Sport previously revealed that Tomiyasu’s long-term fitness is a growing concern, with his second knee operation now confirmed.
Taking to Instagram, the defender wrote:
‘I’ve had a surgery on my knee a few days ago and I’ve already started my rehab to do what I love the most again. It has been the toughest period in my career for sure and it carries on a bit more, but I won’t give up. Thank you for your support and see you again.’
In the accompanying image, the full-back posed with a thumbs-up as he balanced on crutches, his right knee strapped up. He is now expected to miss the rest of the 2024-25 campaign.
Recurring Injury Concerns for Tomiyasu
In 2023, Tomiyasu underwent his first knee operation, which kept the 26-year-old out of action for three months. With that in mind, this second procedure arrives as a significant setback for the defender, whose time at Arsenal has already been beset by injuries.
Last month, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta provided a positive update on Tomiyasu’s fitness, stating:
‘Tomi has done some stuff on the pitch, but now because it’s been a long-term injury, we need to see how quickly he can progress and how he reacts.’
However, there is now growing pessimism regarding his recovery, with talks over surgery leading to the confirmation of his latest operation.
Tomiyasu’s contract has 18 months left to run, but with Arsenal well-stocked at the back, the defender may consider offers at the end of the season. Any plans for a potential transfer, however, may now have to be put on hold due to his injury.
Injury Woes Continue for Arsenal
Tomiyasu becomes the latest Arsenal star to be sidelined, joining Germany international Kai Havertz on the injury list.
Havertz will also miss the remainder of the campaign after suffering a hamstring injury during a training camp in the United Arab Emirates. As first reported by Mail Sport, the German successfully underwent surgery on Saturday and has begun a recovery programme that will extend into pre-season.
Havertz shared his thoughts on social media:
‘The last few days have been tough to process both physically and mentally. But yesterday was a good day. A successful op and a win. Thanks for all the messages of support over the last few days, it’s really helped. I’m now focused on my journey to full fitness and giving all the support I can to the team in the background.’
Arsenal fans will be hoping for a smooth recovery for both Tomiyasu and Havertz as the club navigates a demanding season without key players.
