Ian Wright hails Arsenal star’s key role in Sevilla win in response to new contract demands
SEVILLA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 24: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal competes for the ball with Dodi Lukebakio of Sevilla FC during the UEFA Champions League match between Sevilla FC and Arsenal FC at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on October 24, 2023 in Seville, Spain. ()
Takehiro Tomiyasu impressed for Arsenal against Sevilla
The depth of Arsenaland squad will be tested this season as they continue to fight on all fronts for trophies and success at the end of it. Mikel Arteta’s vision of strong selections in all positions often raised questions within the team, but he benefited greatly from such decisions.
This was no more evident than his recent use of defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, a player who continues to influence the side at every opportunity. His introduction from the bench against Manchester City and Chelsea turned the tide when he took over for Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Not only did the Japanese international improve, but he contributed to the victory against City, joining the attack and scoring a header that kept them on the side of the opposition. While the team is full of superstars who continue to make an impact, Tomiyasu has often been a reliable force
He proved it again in the Champions League against Sevilla when he put the team ahead of Zinchenko. A two-goal lead was cut back to just one in the second half and as the Gunners fought for their lives in Spain, Tomiyasuand#039; to see the introduction win.
There was a moment when the club’s man of the match award was up and many fans cheered and booed his performance. Some supporters are calling for a new deal for the defender as his current deal runs until 2025, with the option to extend it by a year.
Perhaps it shows that some of the other members of the team will get their moment to shine, even though the team is loaded with big names and big money contracts. There will always be a place for a player like Tomiyasu in a team that wins trophies and Arsenal will be hoping he can help them do just that.