A former Arsenal defender has confirmed his departure from one of Europe’s biggest clubs after an unexpectedly brief spell that lasted only five months, bringing another dramatic twist to a career that has been repeatedly disrupted by injury setbacks in recent years.

The experienced international arrived at the club earlier this season amid considerable excitement, with many believing the move could finally provide the platform needed to revive a once-promising career following a frustrating period on the sidelines in England.

Instead, the short-term deal has come to an abrupt conclusion ahead of the summer transfer window, with the player taking to social media to deliver an emotional farewell message to supporters, teammates and club staff.

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The announcement has already sparked widespread speculation over the defender’s next destination, particularly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching and several clubs across Europe believed to be monitoring his situation.

The player in question is former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, who confirmed through his official Instagram account that he has left Ajax following the expiration of his short-term contract.

Tomiyasu joined the Eredivisie giants in December 2025 after leaving Arsenal by mutual consent earlier in the year. Ajax had offered the Japan international a deal running until June 2026 as the club looked to strengthen its defensive options while also giving the versatile defender an opportunity to rebuild his career after a series of injury problems.

At the time of his arrival, Ajax officials praised Tomiyasu’s experience and versatility, with Director of Football Marijn Beuker describing him as an “excellent defender” capable of operating across the back line. The move was widely viewed as a major opportunity for the former Bologna player to rediscover his best form in a less physically demanding environment than the Premier League.

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However, despite gradually returning to action during the second half of the campaign, Tomiyasu’s stay in Amsterdam ultimately proved short-lived. Reports earlier this year suggested Ajax were assessing his long-term fitness before deciding whether to extend his contract beyond the summer.

The 27-year-old had previously endured a difficult final period in North London after persistent knee and calf injuries severely limited his appearances under Mikel Arteta. Although he initially impressed Arsenal supporters with his composure and defensive intelligence following his arrival from Bologna in 2021, recurring fitness problems prevented him from becoming a consistent starter.

Tomiyasu’s latest announcement now leaves him searching for the next chapter of his career at a crucial stage. The defender recently returned to the national team setup and remains highly regarded for his versatility, leadership and experience at the highest level.

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