Martín Zubimendi’s arrival at Arsenal marks a new chapter for one of Spain’s calmest and most intelligent midfielders. After years at Real Sociedad, the player decided it was finally time to leave his hometown club and embrace a new challenge in England. The transition has been smooth so far not least because of the warm welcome he received from everyone at the club, including Arsenal’s therapy dog, Win, who instantly bonded with him on his first day.
The Spain international admits leaving San Sebastián was a big change, but one he had been ready for. Having rejected interest from Liverpool a year earlier, Zubimendi felt the time was right to take the next step in his career. His admiration for Arsenal’s energy, youth, and passion was already clear, and once Mikel Arteta called, the decision became simple. The midfielder describes Arteta as “mad about football” and “crazy about details,” a coach who knows exactly what he wants from his players.
Zubimendi, who replaced Rodri in Spain’s Euro 2024 final win, is already an established international. Now, he brings that same composure to Arsenal’s midfield, forming part of a squad determined to go one step further after finishing Premier League runners-up three seasons in a row. He understands the club’s ambition and believes his qualities fit perfectly into Arteta’s structure. “If they signed me, it’s because they like what I do,” he says. “If I changed my profile, it would be an error.”
Life in London has been an adjustment, but Zubimendi approaches it with the same calm that defines his play. He notes differences between La Liga and the Premier League faster transitions, physical clashes, and the importance of set pieces but welcomes the challenge. “I have to adapt my play a bit, but I think I can do that,” he says confidently.
Described by coaches as “totally reliable” and “calm even on a high wire,” Zubimendi’s quiet authority has already made him a reassuring presence at Arsenal. Whether dictating tempo, breaking up play, or delivering the final pass, the 26-year-old embodies balance and composure. For him, growth lies in leaving his comfort zone and at Arsenal, he seems perfectly placed to do just that.
