Tomiyasu explains why he couldn’t say no to Arsenal
Cameron Smith
- 28 Sept 2021 18:26 BST
- 3 min read
Arsenal's newest defensive addition, Takehiro Tomiyasu, has revealed that "when I had the offer, I just wanted to be part of Arsenal."
Tomiyasu was the subject of attention from Tottenham over the summer, but in the end it was Arsenal who managed to sign him.
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The Gunners paid Bologna £17 million (€20m) to land the 22-year-old, and he is tied down to a contract until 2025. There is also an option for a further year.
The Japanese international can play at either right-back or centre-back, but has begun life at the Emirates by playing as a right-back in a back four. He was excellent against Tottenham, and he has conceded just one goal during his time at the club - Heung-Min Son's late consolation goal in the North London derby.
His start to life at the club earned him an interview in Arsenal's official matchday programme, and in it he detailed his thoughts about the club, and how happy he is to have joined.
What has Tomiyasu said?
Speaking to the matchday programme, Tomiyasu said: "For me Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the world, so there is no reason at all to say no to them. It’s as simple as that – when I had the offer, I just wanted to be part of Arsenal.
"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.”
Arsenal currently sit 10th in the Premier League, with nine points from their opening six games.
