Martín Zubimendi has been one of the most talked-about names this summer as he completed a high-profile move to Arsenal from Real Sociedad for 70 million euros. The 26-year-old midfielder spoke with DAZN, opening up about his adaptation to the Premier League and the reasons behind choosing to wear the Arsenal shirt.
The main change will be in mentality; here you are not allowed to drop points, Zubimendi said. He acknowledged that this summer has been different and not always easy, but he’s ready to start: “It’s been a different summer. The change hasn’t been easy, but we’re here now and eager to begin.” He also noted the differences between the English league and Spain, emphasizing the mental shift required to succeed in the Premier League.
For Zubimendi, this move represented a pivotal step forward. He admitted that last year he had doubts about leaving Real Sociedad, feeling he could still contribute there, but this summer he felt the moment had arrived. Regarding his choice, he said his new coach, Mikel Arteta, didn’t need much convincing: “We spoke, but there was no need for convincing. I already knew what I wanted by seeing how the team played.”
The 70 million fee places him among the 50 most expensive signings in Premier League history. He also drew comparisons with his compatriot Rodri Hernández, though he insists they are very different players on their own paths: “I admire him a lot, although I think we are completely different players; each of us is on our own path.”
In Arsenal he will join former teammates like Mikel Merino or Martin Ødegaard in the dressing room: “I was lucky to start playing with them, and I’m really looking forward to sharing the pitch again. That midfield sounds fantastic.” With Zubimendi’s arrival, the midfield value in the team is estimated around 300 million, making it one of Europe’s most valuable setups.
Through his statements, Zubimendi signals he is in a good personal moment and is not afraid of the challenges ahead: “He is obsessed with exploiting every play. I’m sure he will ask a lot of me.” By speaking about Arteta, the midfielder accepts a clear responsibility as he enters one of the continent’s most ambitious projects.
What this move means for Arsenal
– Strengthens the core of Arsenal’s midfield with a tactically mature, ball-progression-centric player.
– Sets high expectations due to the premium price tag and the club’s ambitions in domestic and European competitions.
– Suggests Arteta’s system will demand high levels of intensity and mental focus from Zubimendi, reinforcing Arsenal’s pressing and possession game.
Key takeaways
– A high-profile, €70m transfer from Real Sociedad to Arsenal.
– Focus on mentality and adaptation to the Premier League’s pace and demands.
– The 26-year-old Spaniard cites confidence in Arteta’s system and a readiness to contribute immediately.
– The midfield unit now sits among Europe’s most valuable, signaling Arsenal’s intent to compete at the top.
Summary
Martín Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal marks a bold step in his career, emphasizing mental resilience and tactical fit within Arteta’s plans. The midfielder’s early remarks paint a picture of a player eager to rise to the Premier League’s challenges and help Arsenal push toward its seasonal objectives.