Impressive new signing Takehiro Tomiyasu has explained the reasons for joining Arsenal on the transfer deadline day.
Takehiro Tomiyasu has taken the Premier League by storm, with Arsenal winning all three games he has played in and conceding just once. After starring in two consecutive wins over Norwich City and Burnley, the Japan international produced a superb performance against Tottenham in the North London Derby.
After arriving as a relatively unknown quantity, Tomiyasu has proved many doubters wrong who questioned Arsenal’s decision to sign him on deadline day. After Edu was seemingly convinced by the new Spurs signing Emerson Royal for the right-back position, Mikel Arteta had requested the club sign Tomiyasu.
From his latest displays, Arteta might have been right as Tomiyasu provides the manager with a different option in defence and more security for the backline. On the other hand, Royal has struggled to get grips with the Premier League so far, and in hindsight, the former Bologna man seems like the perfect choice for the Gunners.
In his presence, Arsenal have conceded just one goal in three games, and things have looked bright after a dismal start to the season. Tomiyasu might not be the kind of flair signing, but he is a sturdy player who can tactically enhance a defensive unit, while also being praised by former stars Ian Wright and the likes.
The Japan international has outlined his reasons for joining Arsenal and that many other clubs were somewhat interested in him. Tottenham chased the defender all summer but failed to agree on terms with Bologna.. Goal.com posted quotes from the defender speaking to Arsenal’s official matchday programme.
Tomiyasu said, “I wanted to play at a higher level, so I am so grateful to be given this chance by Arsenal. I just could not believe it when I found out. I was very excited as soon as I knew. I didn’t need to call anyone or speak to anyone for advice. It was an easy choice for me, because, well, because it’s Arsenal.
“I didn’t even have time to speak to the manager before signing the contract, and I didn’t need to. I wanted to come.”
The Japan international praised his teammates as he was nervous before his debut against Norwich and singled out Martin Odegaard for helping him ease through. “Ever since I arrived, every single player has helped me a lot here, and every member of staff as well,” he said.
“Before that game against Norwich, I have to say I was really nervous. So I really appreciated the help from all the players, especially Martin Odegaard. He told me that you just have to enjoy this time, really enjoy it, and that’s what I was able to do. It helped that we were able to take the three points as well!
