Takehiro Tomiyasu, a name now synonymous with solid defending and versatility, has rapidly gained recognition as one of the top defenders in Europe. From his early days in Japan to making waves in the Premier League with Arsenal, Tomiyasu’s journey has been one of growth, determination, and consistency. His ability to play in various defensive positions while maintaining high performance levels has made him a key figure in both his club and national team.

In this article, we will explore Takehiro Tomiyasu’s football journey, his playing style, and his key stats, giving you an in-depth look at why he’s considered one of the most promising defenders in world football today.

Early Career and Development in Japan

Takehiro Tomiyasu was born on November 5, 1998, in Fukuoka, Japan. His football career began at the youth level in Japan, where he quickly caught the attention of scouts for his defensive abilities, composure on the ball, and leadership qualities. His professional career kicked off at the J1 League club, Avispa Fukuoka, where he made his senior debut at the age of 18. His time at Avispa Fukuoka helped him build a strong foundation, with his performances making him a regular starter.

Tomiyasu’s breakthrough moment came when he moved to Belgium to play for Sint-Truiden in 2017. This move was instrumental in developing his game further, as he faced tougher competition in the Belgian Pro League. His consistency and ability to adapt to different tactical systems earned him a transfer to Serie A’s Bologna in 2019, where he truly showcased his talent on a larger stage.

Move to Arsenal and Premier League Impact

In the summer of 2021, Takehiro Tomiyasu made the leap to the Premier League, joining Arsenal FC for a reported £17 million transfer fee. His arrival at the North London club was met with enthusiasm, as Arsenal was looking to strengthen their defense, and Tomiyasu’s versatility made him a perfect fit for the team.

Tomiyasu’s debut season in the Premier League was a standout one, with the defender immediately impressing fans and critics alike. Whether playing as a right-back or a centre-back, he proved to be reliable, consistent, and tough to beat. His tactical intelligence, combined with his physical attributes, allowed him to seamlessly fit into Mikel Arteta’s system. His performances were integral to the Gunners’ defensive improvements, with many praising his calmness under pressure and ability to read the game.

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s Stats: A Detailed Overview

As of the 2024-2025 season, Takehiro Tomiyasu’s statistics reflect the high level of performance he has consistently delivered in both domestic and international football. Below, we’ll break down some of his key stats, focusing on his impact at Arsenal and for the Japanese national team.

Appearances and Minutes Played

Since joining Arsenal, Tomiyasu has made 70+ appearances for the club across all competitions. He has played a total of 5,000+ minutes for the Gunners, contributing to their defensive solidity. His ability to maintain a high level of consistency despite a packed fixture schedule speaks volumes about his fitness and professionalism.

Defensive Contributions

Tomiyasu’s defensive contributions are impressive for a player who is often deployed in a variety of positions. He averages 2.2 tackles per game in the Premier League, showcasing his tenacity in one-on-one duels. His ability to read the game allows him to make crucial interceptions, with an average of 1.3 interceptions per match. Furthermore, he has a successful clearance rate of 5.0 per game, displaying his ability to deal with aerial balls and clearances under pressure.

Passing and Build-up Play

While known for his defensive skills, Tomiyasu is also a player who contributes to the build-up play. He averages a passing accuracy of 85% in the Premier League, reflecting his ability to maintain possession and distribute the ball effectively from the back. His long passing range is another asset, with an average of 3.0 long balls per game, which he often uses to switch play or find wingers in advanced positions.

Versatility and Tactical Awareness

One of Tomiyasu’s most remarkable traits is his versatility. He has played multiple defensive roles for Arsenal, including right-back, left-back, and centre-back, adapting to various tactical setups. This adaptability has made him an invaluable asset for Arteta, who often employs Tomiyasu in different positions based on the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses.

In addition to his versatility, Tomiyasu’s tactical awareness is exceptional. He has an excellent understanding of positional play, often making key interceptions or timely tackles. His ability to operate as a full-back or centre-back allows him to adjust his positioning to provide cover for teammates or shut down the opposition’s attacking threats.

Discipline and Card Record

Tomiyasu’s discipline on the pitch is another highlight of his game. Despite being involved in physically demanding duels, he has maintained a clean record with few fouls and yellow cards. This disciplined approach allows him to remain available for selection in important matches without the risk of suspension.

International Success with Japan

Tomiyasu has also been a key player for Japan’s national team. Since making his debut in 2018, he has become an essential part of their defense. His leadership, ability to read the game, and physical attributes have made him a fixture in the Samurai Blue’s backline. As of 2025, he has earned over 40 caps for Japan, contributing significantly to their efforts in World Cup qualifiers and Asian Cup competitions.

Strengths and Playing Style

Takehiro Tomiyasu is known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and defensive resilience. His primary strength lies in his ability to read the game, making timely interceptions and crucial clearances. His versatility allows him to play across multiple defensive positions, and his aerial ability ensures that he is effective in dealing with high balls.

Additionally, Tomiyasu’s distribution and passing ability set him apart from many traditional defenders. He is calm on the ball and rarely makes errors under pressure, which is a valuable trait in modern football, where defenders are often required to participate in attacking play.

FAQs

What position does Takehiro Tomiyasu play?

Takehiro Tomiyasu is a versatile defender, primarily used as a right-back, but he is equally capable of playing as a centre-back or left-back. This adaptability has made him a valuable asset for both his club, Arsenal, and the Japan national team. His ability to operate in multiple defensive roles provides flexibility for his managers, allowing him to adjust based on tactical needs.

How has Tomiyasu performed at Arsenal?

Since joining Arsenal in 2021, Takehiro Tomiyasu has impressed with his solid performances and defensive reliability. In his first season, he quickly became a regular starter, offering defensive stability while also contributing to Arsenal’s build-up play. His passing accuracy averages around 85%, and he consistently performs key defensive actions, such as tackles and interceptions, which contribute to Arsenal’s overall defensive strength.

What are Tomiyasu’s key stats?

As of the 2024-2025 season, Tomiyasu has made over 70 appearances for Arsenal across all competitions. He averages 2.2 tackles per game and 1.3 interceptions in the Premier League, showcasing his defensive contributions. His passing success rate of 85% also highlights his ability to help initiate attacking moves from the back. Additionally, his aerial presence with 5 clearances per match makes him a strong defender in set-piece situations.

How does Tomiyasu perform for Japan?

Tomiyasu has been a key figure for Japan since his debut in 2018. As of 2025, he has earned over 40 caps for the national team. His leadership, defensive capabilities, and ability to operate across different positions have been integral to Japan’s defensive efforts in major tournaments like the AFC Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers.

To Conclude

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s journey from Japan to becoming a key player in the Premier League is a testament to his talent, hard work, and adaptability. His impressive stats, combined with his versatility and tactical awareness, make him one of the most complete defenders in modern football. As he continues to shine at Arsenal and on the international stage with Japan, it is clear that Tomiyasu has a bright future ahead.

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