Takehiro Tomiyasu exclusive: Arsenal star admits disappointment of missing out on the title outweighs joy of returning to the Champions League

Looking back on Arsenal's season, you couldn't quite clinch the Premier League title but did make a leap from fifth place to secure a place in the Champions League. As a team, do you feel more like you've earned a top-four spot or missed out on the championship?

Tomiyasu: "It's definitely 'missed out on the championship". We spent most of the season in first place, so in that sense missing out on first place is what really sticks out. Honestly, before the start of the season, our goal was getting back to the top four and securing a place in the Champions League. But as the season went on, we spent a lot of time in first place, then slowed down a bit at the end and ended up in second. So in that sense, it's definitely the feeling of missing out."

What do you think were the main factors in the team's improved performances last season?

"I think the key factors were the integration of our tactics and the quality of our players. The players we've acquired have made significant contributions as well."

In the end, you were overtaken by Manchester City. What do you think was the difference between your team and theirs?

"If I had to point out one major thing, I'd say it was the difference in experience. They're used to competing for the championship every year, and there's a sense of familiarity with that process throughout the club, including the players and the manager. In fact, when we faced them at the end of the season, I thought the difference in experience showed up.

"We're still a young team and just getting started. I feel that we've become a club that can aim for the championship, and Arsenal should return to being such a club. We want to try and secure the title next season."

You played as both a right and left-back last season. What type of play was demanded by Arteta?

"Most of the time last season, I was subbed in later in the games, often when we needed to maintain our lead. I think my role was primarily to close out the match."

What sort of things were pointed out to you by Arteta?

"I got feedback during daily training, but that wasn't just me, it was the whole team. If anything, he is a manager who always pushes the entire team to do more."

You mentioned that the unity of the team and the implementation of tactics were the reasons for last season's progress. What kind of role do you think Arteta played in that?

"I think Arteta is a manager who has it all. He's not just about tactics, nor is he just a motivator. I feel he embodies all aspects of management. There's no doubt he's one of the top managers in the world in terms of tactics. On top of that, player management and preparing players mentally for matches, makes him a top-tier coach."

You often competed with Ben White for a starting spot last season. What mindset did you have to come out on top?

"He's really a good player. In his first year, I was the right full-back and he was a centre-back. Playing alongside him, I have to say he's one of the players I respect. But that's not just him, I think all the players at Arsenal have really high quality.

"However, while it's important to recognise the quality of team-mates, including him, I think it's also necessary to have confidence in yourself. Next season, I want to focus more on myself. I mean, in the end, all I can do is give it my all. I want to keep that in mind as I compete."