Arsenal completed their final signing of the summer on deadline day as they brought in Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu from Bologna.
The versatile player can play both as a left and right-back and if needed, can slot in the centre of defence as well. The 22-year-old is known for his passing, tackling and ability in the air.
During the international break, the new arrival was in action for Japan as they took on Qatar. The Asian side won the game 1-0 and Tomiyasu played a key role in helping his country keep a clean sheet. He along with fellow centre back Maya Yoshida superbly marshalled the backline.
Arsenal fans were paying attention to this game to get a glimpse of what their new player is capable of. And based on what they had to say on Twitter, they were quite impressed. Here are some of the best reactions:
Tomiyasu does not have a weak foot, it’s incredible.
— N.E🇵🇪 (@afcpechita) September 7, 2021
The pace of Tomiyasu’s passes >>
He definitely understands how to speed up play by putting some weight behind his passes.
His two-footedness is insane.
— Jessica Black (@itsjessinho) September 7, 2021
tomiyasu is massive i’m seeing people live tweet china V japan
huge player
— . (@hxrry_afc) September 7, 2021
Tomiyasu showed his good pace. But Japan dominates the game so he doesn’t have much chance to show his defensive ability.
— Eigo (@eigoogoo) September 7, 2021
Tomiyasu has excellent recovery speed. Going up against a fast Wu Lei and he easily beat him.
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) September 7, 2021
Tomiyasu is so calm and composed, he doesn’t have a weak foot, he is so press resistant and can help us play higher up the pitch. Proper baller at CB even though he is a RB. Love his profile
— Tarreck (@Tarreckjr) September 7, 2021
Arsenal Fever View
The Gunners had to sign a right-back after the departure of Hector Bellerin on loan and the preference of playing Ainsley Maitland-Niles in midfield. With the Japan international, manager Mikel Arteta has the opportunity to play multiple formations.
And crucially, Tomiyasu is the type of full-back that the boss likes to use on the right flank. Someone who can tuck in and not be too adventurous and also help out the centre-back’s is what Arteta wants. This is something that the 22-year-old defender is excellent at.
After bringing in six players in the transfer window, the pressure is on the manager to deliver the goods. The Emirates club have lost three straight games in the league and they will have to hit the ground running pretty soon to stand a chance of remaining in the fight for European football.
Although Tomiyasu is young, the north Londoners can be happy with the kind of investment they have made. Arsenal need to start winning soon and it will be possible if they have a proper base in defence to build on. The Japanese defender offers the Gunners the ability to use him in a number of ways and that is another reason why this can be considered a shrewd signing. Now that the international break is over, it is time to see him in action.
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