Takehiro Tomiyasu has been speaking to Arsenal in the first part of a feature-length interview with the new £16m man.
Interestingly, the defender revealed that he almost immediately sent a message to someone already at Arsenal after joining the Gunners.
What’s the story?
Well, Tomiyasu claims he sent a message to Arsenal Women star Mana Iwabuchi, another Japanese football star.
Arsenal’s new No.18 told the official website: “I already sent a message to her and she said ‘I am cheering you’. I am also cheering her, so we have a good relationship.”
It’s good to hear that Tomiyasu took it upon himself to send a message to Iwabuchi, and it’s nice to see she responded positively to his text.
It may only have been a small gesture, although it shows what type of character the Japan international is.
Clearly, he’s keen to make friends in north London and settle quickly.
Should he continue to show such friendliness towards his fellow colleagues at London Colney, we’re sure Tomiyasu will feel at home in no time.
Arsenal have a gem on their hands in Takehiro Tomiyasu
You might argue that it was only against Norwich, although Tomiyasu’s Premier League debut was extremely encouraging.
The 22-year-old looks tailor made for English football.
Tomiyasu won a game-high seven aerial duels, and also got forward with two shots at Tim Krul’s goal (WhoScored).
From a defensive aspect, the versatile defender looked simply unstoppable.
Tomiyasu’s pace is very impressive, especially for a player of his muscular build, while his stamina in getting forward was also eye-catching.
Unfortunately for them, we can’t see Calum Chambers or Cedric ever winning their place back now Tomiyasu is here.
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