Zubimendi reveals why Mikel Arteta did not have to convince him

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·16. August 2025

Zubimendi reveals why Mikel Arteta did not have to convince him

Martin Zubimendi has expressed his excitement about joining Arsenal, explaining that Mikel Arteta did not need to persuade him before he agreed to the move. The Spanish midfielder, who had been linked with a transfer to Liverpool twelve months ago, has now arrived at the Emirates and is determined to make the most of this new chapter in his career.

Last year, Liverpool showed strong interest in Zubimendi and was even prepared to trigger his release clause. Personal terms had reportedly been agreed, and it seemed only a matter of time before he would be added to their squad. However, the midfielder ultimately decided to remain at Real Sociedad for another season, believing that he still had more to contribute to his boyhood club. That decision delayed a move to the Premier League, but it opened the door for Arsenal, who have now secured his signature.

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Zubimendi’s Decision to Join Arsenal

Reflecting on his choice, Zubimendi revealed that Arsenal’s style of play had already convinced him of the suitability of the move. As cited by DAZN, he explained, “Last year, I also had my doubts. I felt I could still contribute a lot to Real Sociedad and that I still had steps to take. But this summer, I felt like my time had come.

“Once the signing was close, we talked, but he [Arteta] didn’t need to convince me. I already knew what I wanted by seeing how the team played.”

His comments highlight both his loyalty to Real Sociedad last season and his clear belief that Arsenal represent the right environment for his continued development.

Martin Zubimendi (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)

A Strong Addition for the Gunners

For Arsenal, Zubimendi’s arrival adds quality and depth to the midfield, an area that has been a priority for strengthening as the club aims to compete for major honours. His ability to control possession, dictate tempo and contribute defensively makes him a versatile option well suited to Arteta’s tactical system.

The midfielder’s readiness to embrace the move without requiring extensive persuasion also underlines the appeal of Arsenal’s current project. With the team’s progress under Arteta clear for all to see, players such as Zubimendi are increasingly convinced of the club’s direction.

His signing represents both ambition and forward planning, and supporters will be eager to see how he adapts to the Premier League. For Zubimendi, the chance to play in one of the most competitive leagues in the world is the next step in his career, and he appears determined to seize it.

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