In a candid revelation, Arsenal’s newest midfield maestro, Martin Zubimendi, shed light on his decision to join the North London club, crediting manager Mikel Arteta for his persuasive influence. The Gunners clinched Zubimendi’s coveted signature during the summer, parting with £55 million to entice him from Real Sociedad, an amount exceeding his £51 million release clause to enable more favourable payment conditions.
The 26-year-old signed a five-year commitment with Arsenal, a mere year after rebuffing an offer from Liverpool, who once seemed on the brink of securing the Spanish international’s services. Back in 2024, the Merseyside club attempted to activate his release clause, yet Zubimendi executed a dramatic reversal, opting to stay loyal to Sociedad. His midfield ally, Mikel Merino, however, made his own leap to the Premier League that summer, also landing at Arsenal.
Reflecting on the decision, Zubimendi highlighted the irresistible opportunity to reunite with Merino at the Emirates Stadium. “When any proposal comes, the first question has to be whether to remain at La Real,” Zubimendi confided to the Guardian. “At that moment, it wasn’t the right time. Staying was tough but a season of growth followed, and I wanted to carry more responsibility.”
Zubimendi expressed his delight with how fortunes have unfolded, adding, “I had always admired Arsenal from afar the passion, the youthful zest, and the exhilarating spirit they exude on the pitch. When Mikel Arteta reached out, his zeal and clarity were infectious. If you’ve ever conversed with him, you’d know just how compelling he can be. His comprehensive vision was tailored perfectly for me.”
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