Arsenal defender Tomiyasu out for season after knee surgery

The 26-year-old Japanese has played six minutes this season

Premier League - Arsenal v Chelsea - Emirates Stadium, London, Britain - Apr 23, 2024 Arsenal's Takehiro Tomiyasu in action Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs

Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery on his right knee, the Premier League club said on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old Japanese first suffered an injury during pre-season and has played six minutes this season.

"Despite an initial surgical procedure in August, followed by a return to full training, and featuring as a substitute in our home Premier League match against Southampton in October, Tomi continued to have issues with his knee, resulting in a further corrective surgical procedure," Arsenal said.

"Tomi will now begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, which is expected to be completed towards the end of this year."

Tomiyasu is the third Arsenal player to have surgery over the past month following Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

"I've had a surgery on my knee (a) few days ago and I've already started my rehab to do what I love the most again." Tomiyasu wrote on Instagram.

"It has been the toughest period in my career for sure and it carries on a bit more but I won't give up."

The Japan international joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2021 and made 30 appearances last season.

Arsenal, who trail Premier League leaders Liverpool by seven points, host West Ham United on Saturday.