Takehiro Tomiyasu joins Crystal Palace, officially becoming a member of the club.

Crystal Palace have officially announced the signing of Japanese international defender Takehiro Tomiyasu. The 27-year-old defender completed his trial and passed relevant assessments before signing with the club, becoming manager Pierre Sage's second signing this summer, following the previous signing of Oscar Mingueza.  

Takehiro Tomiyasu is a versatile defensive player capable of playing on the left and right flanks, as well as at center-back. He possesses excellent tactical adaptability and extensive Premier League experience. Previously, he played for Arsenal for four seasons, accumulating valuable experience in top-flight league matches. In the latter half of last season, he joined Dutch powerhouse Ajax on loan and will represent Japan at the 2026 World Cup this summer.  

At the national team level, Takehiro Tomiyasu has already made 46 appearances for the Japanese national team, establishing himself as a key member of the team's defense with his consistent performances. After joining Crystal Palace, the Japanese international will choose the number 17 jersey to begin a new chapter in his Premier League career.  

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish said of Takehiro Tomiyasu's signing: "Takehiro Tomiyasu has extensive experience in top European competitions and international matches. We are delighted to welcome such a talented player to the team. We believe his arrival will further strengthen the team and make him an important part of the squad."  

In his interview after joining the team, Takehiro Tomiyasu said, "I can't wait to start this new journey. Crystal Palace is currently in a very positive phase of development, having won three trophies in the past two seasons, which is enough to prove the team's strength and ambition. I have been training with the team for over a week and am currently integrating well into the team. This is exactly where I want to join."  

“I’ve always wanted to join a competitive environment, and Crystal Palace is exactly what I’m looking for. I think now is a very good time to come to this club. I will do my best to contribute to the team and have a positive impact.”  

Takehiro Tomiyasu has participated in Crystal Palace's preseason training and was impressed by the intensity of the training. He believes that high-quality and high-intensity preparation will help the team be in better shape for the new season's challenges. According to the schedule, Crystal Palace will officially begin their new season with their first Premier League match against Everton on August 22nd.  

Speaking about the team's preseason preparations, Takehiro Tomiyasu said, "The training intensity is indeed very high. However, we are currently in the preseason preparation phase, and we need to go through such tough training before the start of every season. Only by being fully prepared can we meet the challenges of the new season in the best possible condition."  

"Especially in a league like the Premier League, the competition is extremely intense; it's considered one of the most challenging leagues in the world. However, I think the team is currently in very good form. Hopefully, we can achieve our desired results in the new season. I came here hoping to work with the club to win more accolades."  

Image source: Internet/Crystal Palace official website