“3 key passes, 3 long balls, he was everywhere on the pitch and didn’t give the opponent a breathing space, he deserves to start against Wolves next weekend”- Manchester United Legend Paul Scholes praises £25M Arsenal is currently undroppable under Mikel Arteta
Takehiro Tomiyasu’s exceptional performance against Lens in the Champions League showcased his undeniable value to Arsenal, making him a key player in recent weeks. Despite an initial stint as a left-back replacement for Oleksandr Zinchenko, Tomiyasu’s versatility became even more apparent when he seamlessly transitioned to right-back due to Ben White’s injury before the international break.
The 25-year-old Japanese international, initially dealing with injury concerns, has found his stride this season. His standout moment came in the 6-0 victory over Lens at the Emirates Stadium, where he contributed significantly to the team’s success. Tomiyasu’s adeptness was evident when he orchestrated a brilliant long cross-field ball that resulted in Gabriel Martinelli’s goal. Later in the first half, he delivered a pinpoint cross for Martin Odegaard’s volley, further solidifying his impact on the scoreline.
Despite being substituted at halftime in favor of Ben White, there is a compelling argument that Tomiyasu has become undroppable, given his remarkable form. His journey has not been without challenges, having endured long-term injuries in the previous two seasons, including a knee surgery in March. However, his splendid recovery and recent stellar performances underscore his importance to the team.
Contrary to the notion that Tomiyasu might lack offensive contributions, the match against Lens demonstrated his offensive prowess with two sublime assists in the first half. Impressively, he made three key passes and executed three long balls, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that extends beyond defensive duties.
Considering his €25 million valuation, Tomiyasu has undoubtedly earned his spot in the starting lineup, potentially ahead of Ben White. The current form suggests that he should be a constant presence in the XI in the upcoming games. However, given his injury history, manager Mikel Arteta may adopt a cautious approach, possibly playing Tomiyasu for a limited time before substituting him with White to manage his workload effectively. The halftime substitution against Lens served as a strategic move to provide him with a well-deserved rest and maintain his peak performance levels.
In conclusion, Takehiro Tomiyasu’s journey from overcoming injuries to becoming an indispensable player for Arsenal is a testament to his resilience and skill. The Japanese defender’s recent standout performances make a compelling case for him to be a fixture in the starting lineup, and his contributions extend beyond traditional defensive roles, showcasing a well-rounded and impactful presence on the field.
Leave a Reply