)
Martin Zubimendi chose to join Arsenal over several top European clubs due to a number of reasons.
Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi has officially joined Arsenal, marking a major coup for the Premier League giants who have beaten stiff competition from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
The former Real Sociedad star expressed deep satisfaction with his decision that led him to North London.
Pulse Sports takes a look at five key reasons that convinced Zubimendi to choose Arsenal.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
5. A Perfect Tactical Fit
)
Zubimendi made it clear that Arsenal’s tactical philosophy under Mikel Arteta played a major role in his decision.
A product of Real Sociedad’s technically gifted midfield setup, the 25-year-old thrives in possession-based systems with an emphasis on quick transitions and intelligent pressing, hallmarks of Arteta’s Arsenal.
“I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me,” he noted.
With Arsenal pushing to close the gap on the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City and re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite, Zubimendi believes his strengths will complement a midfield already boasting the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Kai Havertz.
4. A Bond Forged in Triumph
)
Zubimendi’s connection to Arsenal runs deeper than just admiration from afar.
He shares a special bond with fellow Spaniard and current Gunner Mikel Merino, with whom he helped Real Sociedad lift the delayed 2019/20 Copa del Rey in April 2021, defeating local rivals Athletic Club.
That shared experience created a strong link between the two players, and Merino’s insight into life at Arsenal likely played a role in influencing Zubimendi’s decision.
Familiarity with a teammate and the opportunity to rekindle their partnership in a new setting added to the emotional pull of the move.
3. Mikel Arteta’s Vision and Influence
)
The pull of a Spanish manager who understands his game cannot be underestimated.
Mikel Arteta’s transformation of Arsenal from a struggling side to consistent title challengers has been widely praised.
Zubimendi, like many modern midfielders, is drawn to the type of meticulous, forward-thinking coaching that Arteta represents.
Arteta’s Spanish roots and his ability to develop players like Odegaard and William Saliba made Arsenal a compelling destination for the midfielder who is still approaching his peak years.
2. A Stage to Shine in the Premier League
While several clubs from Spain, Germany, and Italy were in the race for his signature, Zubimendi wanted the challenge of the English Premier League.
The speed, physicality, and global attention of the league offer him a chance to test himself at the highest level on a weekly basis.
Joining Arsenal not only gives him a shot at domestic silverware but also the chance to compete in the UEFA Champions League, something Sociedad could not offer consistently.
1. A Club with Rising Momentum
)
In recent seasons, Arsenal have evolved into one of the most exciting young teams in Europe.
Under Arteta, they have mounted serious title challenges and are building a squad capable of long-term success.
Zubimendi sees himself as a key piece in that project.
“They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come,” he said confidently.
He arrives not just as a reinforcement but as a believer in the club's upward trajectory.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)