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Martin Zubimendi's Arsenal jersey number after finally making Premier League transfer

Martin Zubimendi will wear the No. 36 jersey for Arsenal following his transfer to the club.

The Spanish player, who was heavily linked with a move to Liverpool last summer, has joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad, penning a five-year contract. The 26-year-old makes his way to London as Arsenal's second summer signing, following fellow Spaniard Kepa Arrizabalaga to the Emirates.

This acquisition marks the club's first significant move in the summer market, as Mikel Arteta seeks to build a team capable of surpassing Arsenal's Premier League runners-up status. As a major signing, Zubimendi likely had some leeway in choosing his new shirt number.

Last season, Zubimendi sported the number four on his back for Real Sociedad - a number currently held by Arsenal defender Ben White.

While his international shirt jersey was up for grabs, Zubimendi decided against taking the No. 18 this time around.

This number became available just recently when Takehiro Tomiyasu left the Emirates after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract early.

Martin Zubimendi

Martin Zubimendi will wear the No. 36 at Arsenal (Image: Getty Images)

However, Zubimendi's selection of 36 means that young goalkeeper Tommy Setford, 19, will need a new number next season.

The former Ajax player, who joined last summer, made his debut in the Carabao Cup against Preston during the 2024/25 season and was a regular fixture on Arsenal's bench during the club's Champions League campaign.

Interestingly, 36 is the number Zubimendi wore when he first broke into the Real Sociedad team.

The Spaniard has chosen to stick with this number for his inaugural season with the Gunners.

Ismael Bennacer donned the number in the 2015/16 season, while Emi Martinez was assigned it for the 2012/13 term. Jonathan Djourou and Jermaine Pennant are also notable players who have worn the shirt for the first team.

"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 remarked following his transfer to Arsenal.

"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 realize 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."

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