'I was not feeling there anymore': Versatile Arsenal defender opens up on difficult choice

Takehiro Tomiyasu has spoken publicly for the first time since leaving Arsenal, offering clarity on the terms and reasons behind his departure.

The Japan international confirmed that his exit was not a sudden or forced move, but a mutual decision reached after discussions with the club.

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

He made just one brief appearance during the 2024/25 season, a five-minute cameo before being sidelined by a knee injury that later required surgery.

Appearing on DAZN’s FOOTBALL TIME (via Goal Japan), the 26-year-old explained that a year of rehabilitation, stress, and uncertainty had taken a toll on his mindset.

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

Tomiyasu had one year left on his deal but felt it was time for a fresh start, both mentally and physically.

He denied any suggestion of conflict, emphasising that the decision to part ways was handled respectfully.

He recalled going room to room at Arsenal’s training ground, saying goodbye individually to teammates and staff.

“Everyone was surprised,” he said. “I still had time left on my contract, and I was injured, but they supported me.”

Tomiyasu joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2021 and went on to make 84 appearances across four seasons.

Injuries limited his playing time, particularly in the last two years, but when fit, he was a reliable and versatile option in Mikel Arteta’s defence.

He described the timing of the departure as ideal, allowing him to focus fully on recovery without the pressures of top-level competition.

“I’m about halfway through my rehab,” he revealed. “The issue is cartilage in the knee.”

Tomiyasu praised the Arsenal environment and singled out Aaron Ramsdale as the teammate who left the biggest impression on him.

The club has since opted for a replacement in Valencia’s Cristhian Mosquera, with plans to reinforce the defence for the new campaign.

Though his time at Arsenal was disrupted by injury, Tomiyasu leaves with admiration for his professionalism and popularity among supporters.

He is now focused on completing his recovery and preparing for the next chapter of his career.

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