Mikel Arteta expressed his utmost satisfaction with the performance of his Arsenal team during their recent match against Liverpool. His jubilant celebrations throughout the game and at the final whistle were clear indications of his contentment. Although the match was not deemed a ‘must win’ for the Gunners, it served as a statement of their capabilities. The team’s impressive display throughout the entire 90 minutes conveyed a message to their competitors in the Premier League title race that they are still very much in contention. What made the victory even more significant was the fact that Arsenal showcased such dominance without the presence of a player who Arteta holds in extremely high regard.
According to The Athletic, Arteta previously described Takehiro Tomiyasu as “arguably the most exceptional defender I have witnessed in numerous situations.” Bearing this in mind, the publication suggests that Arsenal is nearing a new long-term contract agreement with the 25-year-old. It is expected that Tomiyasu, who recently represented Japan in the Asian Cup but was unexpectedly eliminated by Iran in the quarter-finals, will make his return to the starting lineup in the upcoming match against West Ham. While the player may feel a sense of disappointment at not progressing further in the competition, he can find solace in the fact that he will be immediately thrust back into what is shaping up to be the most exciting title race in years.