By Martin Graham
Martin Zubimendi has quickly earned remarkable praise from Mikel Arteta, despite only joining Arsenal a few months ago. Following a narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace in October, the Arsenal manager revealed that Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta had been assigned to track what he described as his side’s “top player”.
The comment may not have drawn widespread attention at the time, but it underlined the high regard in which Arteta holds the midfielder. Since arriving from Real Sociedad in July 2025 for £60m, Zubimendi has consistently validated that confidence.
Influence measured in minutes and goals
The 27-year-old has featured more than any other outfield player in the squad this season, underlining his importance. While primarily recruited to anchor the midfield, he has also made a notable contribution in front of goal.
With six strikes in 34 matches, he has already recorded the highest scoring tally of his career in a single campaign. That output has added another dimension to his game, going beyond the defensive responsibilities he was initially expected to fulfil.
Long-term planning rewarded
Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi was not sudden. The groundwork for his transfer began a year before his move, when discussions first took place during negotiations to sign his former Sociedad colleague Mikel Merino in the summer of 2024.
Brought in for his distribution, tactical awareness and experience of lifting major honours, the Spain international had already demonstrated his pedigree on the biggest stage. He was a key figure as Spain overcame England in the Euro 2024 final.
His presence has also benefited Declan Rice, who has been afforded greater freedom to influence matches further up the pitch.
