Full backs - who’s in, who’s out @ Arsenal FC?

Without further ado, here is the contractual situation regarding full backs at Arsenal, thanks to The Athletic (theathletic.com), along with my verdict as to whether they will stay or go this season.

Takehiro Tomiyasu (2025)
Arriving in 2021, the Japan international right back quickly became a fans' favourite and the only thing that marred an incredibly successful season for him was the amount of matches he missed through injury.

He can also fill in at centre back, which makes him even more important to the team, given his unrivalled stamina and prowess in the air.
Verdict: STAY

Cedric Soares (2024)
Soares is a little bit under-rated by the fan base, as he's proven himself to be a talented and versatile understudy. His ability to play on the left, as well as the right, are valued by the coaching staff, even if not all the supporters can see what he adds to the team.
Verdict: STAY

Hector Bellerin (2023)
Although many fans would rather that Bellerin stays, as opposed to the less-popular Soares, the Spaniard's contract situation means a departure is likely. Of course, Bellerin is not the lighting-fast player he was before injuries took their toll.

Although he is only 27-years-old and he captained the team in a recent pre-season game against Ipswich, Bellerin is set to leave. Even if he can't return to Real Betis, who took him on loan last season, he should be able to get a move before the transfer window closes.
Verdict: GO

Kieran Tierney (2026)
The club's interest in Ajax's Lisandro Martinez reminds us that despite Tierney's brilliance on the pitch, the number of games missed through injury is a cause of concern.

Nevertheless, overtures from Man City are likely to be ignored, unless it's an offer that can't be refused, as they might say in 'The Godfather'.
Verdict: STAY

Nuno Tavares (2025)
The Portuguese left back has speed to burn and impressed and disappointed in equal measures last season. If Arteta can get the best out of this youngster, in regard to improving his defensive positional play, he's a potential world-beater. You heard it here first!

Although Marseille are interested in taking Tavares on loan, Arsenal will only sanction a move if Martinez is signed and that looks increasingly unlikely with the Argentinian set to join Man U.
Verdict: STAY