Martin Zubimendi has disclosed that Arsenal was his preferred destination as soon as he decided to part ways with Real Sociedad this summer, and he believes the 'best is yet to come' for the Gunners. The Spanish international spent 15 years at the Basque club before making his move to north London.
Zubimendi arrives in a $75 million (£55 million) deal from Real Sociedad, a year after rejecting an offer from Liverpool. The 26-year-old has inked a five-year contract at the Emirates, marking a significant milestone in his career.
This acquisition represents Arsenal's second transfer of the summer, following the addition of Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea. It's the second player the north London outfit have snapped up from Real Sociedad within a year, following Mikel Merino's arrival last summer.
Zubimendi is eager to link up with his former colleague and a youthful, driven squad. The midfielder is hopeful of aiding the team in realising its potential.
"Once I made the decision to leave, I set my sights on Arsenal because I think their style of play is a good fit for me," Zubimendi shared in his inaugural interview with the club.
"It's a young, highly motivated and ambitious team. They have shown their potential recently, and I believe the best is yet to come. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are. Andrea [Berta] and Mikel [Arteta] took excellent care of me, leaving me with no doubts whatsoever.
"This is a huge moment in my career. It's the move I was looking for; one I wanted to make. Of course, it's a big change, but I'm ready to get started."
Martin Zubimendi
Martin Zubimendi has been confirmed as an Arsenal player (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Zubimendi has already shared the pitch with Arsenal ace Merino and skipper Martin Odegaard. "I'm happy to be here with them," he expressed.
"I've played many games alongside Merino over the years. It's important because it will make the transition much easier for me, and I'm sure they'll be a great help."
With new gaffer Arteta hailing from San Sebastian, having played for Antiguoko and Sociedad too, Zubimendi finds common ground. He remarked: "We have a lot in common.
"We come from the same city and played for the same teams. We'll have something to talk about off the pitch, I'm happy about that."