Arsenal star Martín Zubimendi has admitted that he only ever had eyes for the north London club, despite speculation linking him with Real Madrid before his summer move from Real Sociedad.
The Spanish midfielder, who joined Arsenal in July, has quickly become a key figure under Mikel Arteta, anchoring the midfield with composure and precision. Speaking to AS ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Atlético Madrid, the 26-year-old explained why the Gunners’ project — and Arteta’s detailed approach — convinced him to move to England.
“Once I decided to leave Real Sociedad, Arsenal was a team that, from what I’d seen, suited me well, especially in terms of play,” Zubimendi said. “I also wanted a very detail-oriented manager, and in Arteta, as soon as I spoke to him, I found him.”
Why Arsenal felt like the perfect fit
Zubimendi revealed that Arsenal’s youthful, ambitious squad and their hunger for trophies played a big part in his decision — particularly given the club’s near misses in recent Premier League title races.
“There was a very young team at Arsenal, with a lot of passion, very close-knit, eager to win,” he continued. “Even if they haven’t been able to do so, that makes you want it even more.”
The midfielder’s comments underline how Arsenal’s identity under Arteta — built on tactical precision, intensity and collective growth — appealed to his own footballing philosophy.
“I can’t talk about other teams. Arsenal was the one I’d decided on, and I went all out for it.” — Martín Zubimendi
Zubimendi was also asked about reports of Real Madrid’s interest, particularly given his past connection with Xabi Alonso, who coached him during his development at Real Sociedad’s academy. But the Spaniard made clear that once Arsenal entered the picture, there was no hesitation.
Calm under pressure
Since his arrival, Zubimendi has slotted seamlessly into Arsenal’s midfield, helping them to the top of the Premier League table and adding balance to Arteta’s possession-based system. Despite the growing pressure on the Gunners to finally lift silverware, the Spaniard insists the mood within the camp remains focused but relaxed.
“I’m not really feeling it,” he said when asked about title pressure. “No one here talks about obligations or having to earn anything. Rather than pressure, I see people with a lot of desire.”
| Martín Zubimendi (2025/26 Season) | All Competitions |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 10 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Completion | 91% |
source: Transfermarkt – 21 October 2025
Our View: Zubimendi’s mentality fits Arteta’s Arsenal
In our view, Zubimendi’s attitude epitomises the culture Mikel Arteta has worked to build at Arsenal — grounded, ambitious, and driven by collective growth rather than external expectations. His willingness to reject Real Madrid and commit fully to Arsenal speaks volumes about his character and belief in the project.
Under Arteta, Arsenal have become a destination club once again — and Zubimendi’s early impact suggests the faith was mutual.
Analyst Verdict
I think Zubimendi’s comments show why Arsenal targeted him so aggressively. His tactical intelligence, humility, and hunger fit perfectly with Arteta’s high standards.
As FootballPlace analyst John William puts it: “Zubimendi isn’t just filling a position — he’s embodying the mentality shift at Arsenal. That blend of class and calmness is exactly what the team needed.”
Key Insights
- Zubimendi says Arsenal were his only choice despite Real Madrid links
- Describes Arteta as a “very detail-oriented” manager
- Joined from Real Sociedad for around £50m in July 2025
- Credits Arsenal’s youth and hunger as major influences on his decision
- Insists the team feels “desire, not pressure” in the title race
What’s Next
Zubimendi is expected to start against Atlético Madrid in today’s Champions League tie, as Arsenal aim to continue their strong European form. Domestically, the Gunners remain top of the Premier League, with Zubimendi already emerging as one of their most consistent summer signings.
👉 Did Martín Zubimendi make the right call choosing Arsenal over Real Madrid?
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