Martin Zubimendi with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s £51m summer signing from Real Sociedad, Martin Zubimendi, has opened up about his transition to the Emirates Stadium and the players who have helped him settle in.
The 26-year-old midfielder has been very impressive in the Premier League with his exceptional skills, composed deliveries on the pitch since signing for the Gunners.
According to Zubimendi, Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard have been instrumental in helping him adjust to life at Arsenal.
READ MORE: When will William Saliba play for Arsenal again?
“Rice and Odegaard have been fantastic,” Zubimendi said in a recent interview with Arsenal Media. “They’ve shown me the ropes and helped me feel at home. They’re both top players, and it’s been great to learn from them.”
Zubimendi’s impressive form for Real Sociedad caught the attention of several top clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
However, it was Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta who ultimately convinced him to join the Gunners.
The two share a common background, having both grown up in the city of San Sebastian and played for the same youth club, Antiguoko.
“Arteta used that common ground to form a strong connection with me in negotiations,” Zubimendi revealed.
“He played a crucial role in convincing me to join Arsenal. I’m excited to work with him and learn from his experience.” he added.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Zubimendi’s former coaches and teammates have also praised him for his exceptional qualities on and off the pitch.
“He’s a complete person and a complete player,” says Aitor Zulaika, a former Real Sociedad coach. “He’s humble, proud, and has a strong personality. You don’t often find players with all those qualities together.”
Benoit Cachenaut, a former teammate, agrees, saying, “He was always a very complete player. Technical, quick, intelligent, potent. He was also very humble and friendly.”
Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice
Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice (Image credit: Getty Images)
Zubimendi’s ability to excel under pressure was evident during Spain’s European Championship win last year. He stepped in seamlessly for the injured Rodri at half-time in the final against England and played a crucial role in Spain’s victory.
“He just has so much confidence in his ability,” says Carlos Martinez, a former Real Sociedad teammate. “You saw how willing he was to take the ball, to drive forward, to be brave. He’s an exceptional player.”
With his impressive skills and adaptability, Zubimendi is expected to make a significant impact at Arsenal. As Aitor Zulaika puts it, “He could play for any team in the world. Whatever the competition, he would have a place in any team.”
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal loanee set for early debut against Bayern Munich after international break