It didn’t end the way anyone wanted at Arsenal. Injuries robbed Takehiro Tomiyasu of his best years in north London, limiting him to just six minutes of football in his final season. But football has a way of offering second chances.
Crystal Palace have officially signed the Japan international on a free transfer. And honestly? This could be one of the smartest deals of the summer.
From Arsenal Heartbreak to Selhurst Park
Tomiyasu arrived at the Emirates from Bologna in August 2021 for a reported fee of around £17 million. He hit the ground running. Ben White once called him “the best right-back I’ve ever played with,” and that wasn’t empty praise. During his first three Premier League campaigns, Tomiyasu ranked third among Arsenal defenders for interceptions (56) and fourth for duels won (211).
But persistent knee and calf injuries slowly chipped away at his time on the pitch. He managed 84 appearances across four years — a respectable total, but one that should’ve been much higher.
In July 2025, Arsenal and Tomiyasu agreed to part ways by mutual consent.
“I never imagined I would go through such a tough time at Arsenal, because I’ve always taken great care of my body,” Tomiyasu said. “My first six months in London were amazing. It was like a dream.”
The Road Back Through Ajax and a World Cup
After leaving Arsenal, Tomiyasu signed a short-term deal with Ajax in December 2025. It wasn’t glamorous. He made just seven Eredivisie appearances and dealt with yet another fitness setback in March 2026.
Still, it was enough. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu included him in the 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite a near two-year absence from international duty. Tomiyasu repaid the faith, earning three appearances in the tournament before Japan’s Round of 32 exit against Brazil.
That World Cup run proved his body could still cope at the highest level. Crystal Palace took notice.
Why This Move Makes Sense for Everyone
Palace invited Tomiyasu to train with the squad during pre-season in late July. Manager Pierre Sage — fresh from a trophy-winning stint at RC Lens — liked what he saw. A deal was wrapped up quickly.
“I’m excited to get started,” Tomiyasu told the club’s website. “This club is in a good moment, winning three titles in two seasons. Here is where I wanted to be.”
He’s not exaggerating. Palace have won the FA Cup (2025), the Community Shield (2025), and the Conference League (2026). They’ll compete in the Europa League this season. That’s a club on the rise, and Tomiyasu wants to be part of it.
Chairman Steve Parish didn’t hold back either:
“Takehiro has experience at the highest level of European and international football. We are delighted to welcome a player of his calibre.”
For Palace, Tomiyasu fills a genuine need. Maxence Lacroix departed for Chelsea earlier in the window, leaving gaps in defence. Tomiyasu’s versatility — he can play right-back, left-back, or centre-back — gives Sage tactical flexibility in what’s expected to be a three-at-the-back system.
He becomes Sage’s second signing after Oscar Mingueza, with further defensive reinforcements reportedly being pursued.
At 27, Tomiyasu isn’t past it. Far from it. He’s got 46 international caps, Premier League experience, and something to prove. If he stays fit — and that’s always been the big “if” — Crystal Palace have landed a genuine bargain.
He could make his competitive debut when Palace face Everton on August 22. Don’t be surprised if he makes an immediate impact.
