An international hero to “Gunners” fans everywhere, Arsenal’s versatile defender Takehiro Tomiyasu recently returned to his hometown of Fukuoka, Japan, to lend a hand to those in need. Despite his busy schedule, the 24-year-old—who is considered a national treasure in Japan—took time to coach and mentor new players in Fukuoka, his hometown.

The enthusiastic young players were instructed by Tomiyasu, who was renowned for his exceptional technical abilities and unwavering dedication to the game. Many of the players look up to the Arsenal great, so hearing him speak to them personally was a huge boost. As a result of Tomiyasu’s infectious enthusiasm and patient teaching technique, the aspiring artists were eager to pick up tips from the seasoned expert.

Tomiyasu not only helped them become better football players, but he also instilled in them the virtues of restraint, sportsmanship, and optimism, all of which may have contributed to his own phenomenal success. The players, overcome with joy and pride, soaked up every word of advice from their hometown hero, grateful for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study under one of Japan’s most famous football exports.

This touching project by Tomiyasu illustrates his love for Japan and his ambition to encourage the youth of the sport in Japan. This act of giving back to his hometown has further cemented Tomiyasu’s position as a genuine national treasure and an inspiration to aspiring athletes nationwide, as the “Gunners” fans continue to adore his on-field prowess.