Tomiyasu ruled out for remainder of season following knee surgery

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Takehiro Tomiyasu has revealed that he has undergone knee surgery, with Arsenal stating that his recovery will extend until the end of the year.

Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has confirmed that he has undergone surgery on his persistent knee injury, casting serious doubt over his availability for the remainder of the season. The Japan international, who has been plagued by recurring knee issues since pre-season, now faces another lengthy rehabilitation process.

In a heartfelt message to his supporters on Instagram, Tomiyasu expressed his disappointment and determination to return to the pitch. He wrote in Japanese, “I had surgery on my right knee a few days ago and have already started rehabilitation in order to return!” He continued, “There’s a lot I want to say, but right now, I just want to remember that there are people who are waiting for me, and that I want to return to the pitch and give back to them on the pitch.”

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The news is a significant setback for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who had previously expressed hope that Tomiyasu might return before the end of the season. The 26-year-old managed just six minutes of football this campaign, featuring briefly against Southampton in October before suffering an immediate relapse. His continued absence means Arsenal will be without a player who provides versatility across the defensive line at a crucial stage of the season.

Tomiyasu joins a growing list of Arsenal players who have undergone surgery in recent weeks, alongside Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Reiss Nelson (currently on loan at Fulham). Ben White, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli are among those recovering from their own fitness concerns, though unlike Tomiyasu, they were able to travel with the squad to Dubai for a warm-weather training camp.

With Arsenal battling on multiple fronts, including a Premier League title challenge and a Champions League campaign, Tomiyasu’s absence is a blow to Arteta’s defensive depth. The club confirmed that Tomiyasu is expected to be sidelined until the end of the calendar year, meaning he could miss another nine or 10 months of football.

Despite the challenges, Tomiyasu remains optimistic and determined to make a full recovery. He said, “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.”