Martin Zubimendi says joining Arsenal has been a life-changing move but one he felt ready for after years of steady growth at Real Sociedad and with the Spanish national team.
The midfielder, who arrived from his boyhood club in the summer, revealed that Mikel Arteta’s persuasive vision and Arsenal’s ambition convinced him the time was right to take the next step in his career.
“When Mikel called, it was clear,” he said. “He’s obsessed with football, always trying to control every detail. His proposal was the best for me.”
Zubimendi admitted that leaving San Sebastian was not an easy decision after spending over a decade at the club, but he wanted a new challenge both professionally and personally.
“It would have been easy to stay in my comfort zone,” he said. “But I wanted to grow as a person and as a footballer. You develop more when you step out of what you know.”
The 26-year-old has settled quickly in London, helped by familiar faces such as Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino. He also recalled being greeted by Win, Arsenal’s therapy dog, on his first day. “She came straight to me and rolled at my feet,” he smiled. “It was a lovely welcome.”
On the pitch, Zubimendi has made an immediate impression, adding composure and control to Arsenal’s midfield. His stunning volley against Nottingham Forest last month showcased a more attacking side to his game, something Arteta has encouraged.
“I’m a pivot, but the manager wants me to take that step forward, to play that final pass,” he explained. “Still, if they signed me, it’s because they like what I already do.”
The Spain international has carried his calmness into the national team setup, where he has become a key figure since replacing Rodri in the Euro 2024 final.
“There were nerves, of course,” he said. “But doubts? None. Often it’s not about ability, but about being mentally ready to take that step.”
Zubimendi described the Premier League as “more direct and physical” than La Liga but said adapting to the intensity has been part of the challenge he wanted.
“The mentality is to go into every clash hard,” he said. “Transitions are faster and set pieces are so important — we work on them almost every day.”
Arteta has long admired Zubimendi’s ability to dictate play, a trait he shares with his idol and former coach Xabi Alonso. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente once called him “totally reliable,” and Zubimendi says that quiet dependability defines him.
“I try to stay calm,” he said. “When I’m in control emotionally, I make better decisions. That’s who I am — on and off the pitch.”
