Arsenal’s ongoing struggles with injuries have been a defining challenge throughout the season, creating significant obstacles for Mikel Arteta and his squad.
The team was initially hit hard by the early-season loss of Martin Ødegaard, a setback that was only compounded by further injuries to key players such as Ben White, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and, most recently, Gabriel Martinelli.
These injuries have made it increasingly difficult for Arteta to field his strongest starting eleven, let alone implement squad rotation as he might ideally prefer. The manager has been forced to adapt and make do with limited options, a situation that has undoubtedly affected the team’s consistency and performance levels.
Hopes for Recovery, But Concerns Remain
Despite the difficulties, there is optimism within the club that the coming weeks could see the return of several sidelined players, bolstering the squad at a crucial point in the season. Arsenal fans will be eagerly awaiting the return of some of their key stars, hoping for a timely boost in squad depth.
However, not all injuries have a clear recovery timeline, and some absences may persist for the long term. Gabriel Jesus’ anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury remains a significant concern, as he faces a prolonged period of rehabilitation. Meanwhile, there are growing fears over the fitness of Takehiro Tomiyasu, whose ongoing struggles with injuries could necessitate a second surgical procedure in an effort to fully resolve his issues.
If Tomiyasu is forced to undergo another operation, it could extend his absence well beyond the club’s initial expectations. Given his versatility and defensive reliability, such a setback would be a further blow to Arteta’s plans, especially as Arsenal pushes forward in multiple competitions.
With injuries disrupting much of their campaign so far, the Gunners will be hoping for some much-needed stability in the squad over the next few months. However, for certain players, including Tomiyasu, the road to full recovery may still be a long one.
Takehiro Tomiyasu could face another surgery for Arsenal injury
When Arsenal made the move to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu, it was understated just how impressive he would be in the defensive phases.
The Japanese international was solid at the back, denying any chance of the opposition getting an opportunity, while his versatility allowed him to play at right-back and centre-back if required.
Tomiyasu has been plagued by injuries at the Emirates Stadium though, with his absences growing longer each season.
The 26-year-old has played just six minutes in the Premier League this season, having previously recovered from a knee injury in October, only to suffer another issue.
While there was some hope of a return, given the fact Tomiyasu was spotted at London Colney, he still seems some way from featuring again.
According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal are now assessing the possibility of sending the defender away for surgery to deal with the long-standing knee issues.
It would be the second surgery he has undergone, having previously had a procedure in 2023 for his knee.
The report states that any surgery this time around would cause a significant layoff, which brings his future into question.
With 18 months left on his contract, it’s unclear whether the defender has a long-term future at the club, but his latest injury could stop an exit over the summer.
Takehiro Tomiyasu injury update comes as another blow
Injuries are an unfortunate part of football that is becoming increasingly problematic for sides as the fixture schedule becomes even more congested.
Arsenal aren’t alone in that respect, but the update on Tomiyasu comes as yet another blow they have had to face.
The defender is excellent on the pitch but the loss off of it is just as big, given the standards he has helped set.
Mikel Arteta explained as much in 2023 when he said: “Tomi [Tomiyasu] is a player that everybody loves in there.
“He’s always the first [in training] and he’s always the last out. You tell him to do something and he will give his life for it.
“He’s an exceptionally professional player who gives us versatility and qualities that nobody else has in the squad. For me, he’s a really important player.”
Not having a player as important as that on the pitch is always going to be a blow, but it has been an increasingly big problem for the manager.