Ex Arsenal mystery man Takuma Asano featured for Partizan Belgrade.
Japanese forward Takuma Asano will go down as one of the most peculiar signings of the Arsene Wenger era at Arsenal.
Unlike flops like Yaya Sanogo, Asano never got as far as making a first team appearance for the Gunners.
He had three spells out on loan in Germany before he was finally released this past summer.
Asano joined Serbian side Partizan Belgrade, and got the chance to show what he was capable of against Manchester United in the Europa League last night.
His side lost 1-0 with United scoring a penalty, but Asano gave a decent account of himself.
He put in an industrious and tricky performance, but just lacked a cutting edge.
Asano had one shot on target which was well saved, and another which flashed wide. He created one chance.
It was a performance which showcased fleeting quality, but nowhere near enough for the standard Arsenal require.
Still only 24, Asano is at least a settled part of the team, and he might yet get to the level he aspires to.
Here is a look at how Arsenal fans reacted to his display…
mlfg
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
