Arsenal fans are finally set to see Martin Zubimendi in action on a big stage as the £60 million Spanish midfielder prepares to make his first public appearance for the Gunners against AC Milan in Singapore on Wednesday. His debut follows a behind-closed-doors outing against Watford last weekend.
The 26-year-old, one of the most coveted holding midfielders in Europe, has long been on Arsenal’s radar. While many assumed Liverpool were the frontrunners last summer, it has now emerged that Arsenal had already begun quietly working on a two-part plan that began with the signing of Mikel Merino and culminated this summer with Zubimendi’s arrival.
Manager Mikel Arteta praised the foresight and coordination behind the deal. “It was a really well-orchestrated plan by the club,” he said. “Both players were very keen to come, which is very necessary. I think Real Sociedad understood the situation and handled it excellently.”
New Challenges, Fresh Ambitions
Zubimendi, fresh off helping Spain win Euro 2024, arrives in North London full of purpose. Despite interest from top European clubs, he chose Arsenal, citing Arteta’s vision and coaching style as major factors.
“It wasn’t an easy time,” Zubimendi admitted, reflecting on the decision he had to make last summer. “The first question was whether I wanted to leave Real, and it didn’t feel like the right moment. I still had more to learn.”
Now, having joined his compatriot Merino and integrated quickly under Arteta’s guidance, the former Sociedad midfielder is looking forward to stepping into a new role. “He’s obsessed with details,” Zubimendi said of Arteta. “In just a few days, I’ve learned so much. I’ll be trying things I didn’t do before—bringing balance, being that passing outlet, and learning to do new things he asks of me.”
No Transfer Talk with Merino, But Mutual Respect Remains
Zubimendi and Merino, who both starred for Spain at the Euros, had little conversation about a reunion at Arsenal prior to this summer. The pair were introduced together at the club’s new away kit launch in Singapore but said their focus had remained on their respective campaigns during the past year.
“We didn’t really speak about it,” Merino admitted. “I was focused on my season and he was focused on Sociedad. Even when we were with the national team, we didn’t touch that subject.”
Now reunited, they face stiff competition in a stacked midfield featuring Declan Rice, captain Martin Ødegaard, and new signing Christian Nørgaard. Merino, however, welcomes the challenge. “It’s unbelievable—the amount of quality we have. This is what we need to push each other and compete on all fronts.”
Lessons from the Past, Focus on the Future
Zubimendi’s arrival is being viewed as a significant step in Arsenal’s quest to turn near-misses into trophies. After falling just short in both the Premier League and Champions League last season, expectations are high.
“The most important thing is to learn from the past,” said Zubimendi. “I think the way last season ended will help the team grow. In Europe, it’s all about details. Arsenal were the only team who really stood up to PSG, and they lost due to small lapses.”
He emphasized the importance of depth and rotation over a long campaign. “Injuries will come. Rotations must happen. But with this squad, I think we’re ready to compete at the very highest level.”
Zubimendi to Anchor the Midfield—As a Six
For all the speculation about whether Zubimendi would be used as a more advanced No. 8 or a holding midfielder, Arteta quickly settled the debate. “Six. Really excited,” the manager declared.
His confidence in Zubimendi’s ability to dictate play from deep appears to be unwavering. “How he captures information, how he processes things on the pitch—it’s very impressive. I’m very happy to have him.”
With his intelligence, composure, and precision passing, Zubimendi is seen as the missing piece in Arsenal’s midfield puzzle. The wait has been long, but for Arteta and the Gunners faithful, it may prove to be well worth it.
