Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed high praise and respect for Martin Zubimendi. Describing the midfielder’s decision to join Arsenal as a testament to the club’s appeal. Zubimendi reportedly turned down offers from elite clubs. Such as Liverpool, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Manchester City before committing to Arsenal in early July 2025.
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Arteta welcomed Zubimendi as “a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team.” He emphasised how impressed he is by Zubimendi’s character, intelligence, professionalism. And how quickly he has adapted during pre‑season training. Arteta remarked that seeing him every day. And observing how he absorbs information and applies it on the pitch––is “very impressive.”
The 26‑year‑old defensive midfielder signed a five‑year contract in a deal worth roughly £55 million (≈€65 m), completing one of Arsenal’s most significant summer signings. Zubimendi himself cited Arteta as a major reason behind his move, calling him “one of the best coaches in Europe” and saying he wanted a “quality coach” when leaving Real Sociedad. He added that Arteta’s obsessive attention to detail has already made a strong impact on him in the early days at Arsenal.
Zubimendi rejected a prior offer from Liverpool in mid‑2024, opting to stay at La Real until the timing and project aligned with his ambitions. He emphasised that Arsenal’s tactical philosophy, squad ambition, and upward trajectory convinced him to join now.
The signing completes part of Arsenal’s midfield overhaul. Following the departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey, strengthening the team with intelligence, composure, and long-term vision at the base in Arteta’s preferred system.