Takehiro Tomiyasu has admitted it was an "honour" to represent Arsenal after his exit was confirmed by the club.

The Gunners and the defender have reached an agreement to end the 26-year-old's contract early, with the Japan international leaving with immediate effect. It brings an end to his four-year spell in north London after joining from Bologna in 2021.

"After 4 unforgettable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to this incredible club," Tomiyasu wrote on Instagram. "Obviously, I have got many things to say, but the thing that I want to tell you guys the most is just thank you for the love you guys gave me.

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"I was so happy to be here with my teammates, Mikel, the coaching staff, supporting staff, everyone who was around me in this club. From my first day at the Emirates to every moment wearing the red and white, it has truly been an honor to represent this badge.

"To the supporters, thank you for the love you’ve been giving me on and off the pitch. I will never forget it, and it will stay in me forever. To the teammates, I’m so happy that we’ve shared many memories with you guys, because I know how good you guys are, not only as a player but as a person.

"I’m looking forward to seeing each of you guys ON the pitch soon. It’s time for a new chapter, but I’m forever proud to have been a Gunner. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner. ARIGATO and all the best, Tomi."

Tomiyasu has been plagued by injuries over the last two years and underwent knee surgery in February. He made just one appearance in the 2024/25 season and is not expected to return to action - wherever that may be - until the back end of 2025 or early 2026.

A number of Arsenal players commented on Tomiyasu's Instagram post to wish the player well. Declan Rice wrote: "Good luck Tomi [love heart emoji]." Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber commented love heart emojis of their own, while the official Arsenal account wrote: "Thank you for everything, Tomi [love heart emoji]."