Due to a calf injury and potential participation in Japan’s Asian Cup campaign, Takehiro Tomiyasu may not feature for Arsenal until February, according to information obtained by 90min. Following his substitution in the recent 2-1 victory against Wolves, manager Mikel Arteta disclosed the unfortunate news about Tomiyasu’s calf issue, projecting an extended absence. Sources from 90min suggest that the injury may keep Tomiyasu out for a minimum of four weeks, possibly sidelining him until Arsenal’s visit to Burnley on February 17.
Assuming Tomiyasu is fit, he is anticipated to join Japan for the 2023 Asian Cup from January 12 to February 10. Consequently, this could rule him out for Arsenal’s upcoming matches, including fixtures against Aston Villa, PSV Eindhoven, Brighton, Liverpool, West Ham, Fulham, and a potential FA Cup clash against Liverpool. This absence could extend to 12 games, testing the depth of Arteta’s squad across various competitions.
In Tomiyasu’s potential absence, Arteta is likely to reintegrate Ben White into the starting lineup. However, caution is warranted to prevent further injury concerns, especially with Jurrien Timber already sidelined. Despite these challenges, Arteta remains impressed with both Tomiyasu and White, prompting contract negotiations with the defensive duo as Arsenal navigates a demanding fixture schedule in the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup.