FOOTBALL
Posted on February 10, 2026 1:45 am | Updated on February 9, 2026 8:12 pm
Arsenal made a big splash in the summer of 2025 by signing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for €69m. Many wondered if the Spanish midfielder was worth the price. But halfway through the 2025-26 Premier League season, he’s proving everyone right. Spanish media, even from Real Madrid, call him the league’s best signing. Zubimendi has transformed Arsenal’s midfield, helping them lead the table by nine points. This article explains why he’s the top buy, in simple terms.
A Smart Summer Move
Arsenal needed a strong holding midfielder to pair with Declan Rice. Mikel Arteta spotted Zubimendi’s skills at Real Sociedad, where he was a key player. The Gunners paid £60m (about €69m) to bring him in. It was a bargain compared to other big transfers like Manchester City’s €100m for a winger.
Real Madrid had a chance to sign him but said no, even though their coach Xabi Alonso wanted him. Now, Madrid media like AS praise Zubimendi as “the Premier League’s signing of the season.” His quick adaptation shows Arsenal’s scouting was spot on.
Everyone was criticizing him just a few days back for a mistake, when mistakes do happen once in a while.
Zubimendi has played the most mins for us, coming from a different league and still has been world class for us. pic.twitter.com/dQ8qAvPNDH
— P™ (@SemperFiArsenal) February 7, 2026
Dominating the Midfield
Zubimendi brings calm and control to Arsenal’s game. He’s great at breaking up attacks, passing accurately, and even scoring. In a recent match, his goal sealed a win that put Arsenal nine points ahead. Fans chant his name at the Emirates.
See also Juventus Eye Arsenal's Young Talent, Consider Offering Premier League Flop in Exchange
Stats back it up. In 20 league games, he has three goals, four assists, and a 92% pass accuracy. He wins most tackles and covers ground like a machine. Paired with Rice, they form the best midfield duo in the league. Arsenal’s defense is tighter, conceding fewer goals than last season.
Fitting into Arteta’s Style
Mikel Arteta loves players who think fast and work hard. Zubimendi fits perfectly. He reads the game well, like a chess master. Off the ball, he’s aggressive but fair. On it, his vision helps start attacks.
He’s also versatile. Sometimes he drops back to help defenders, other times he pushes forward. This flexibility lets stars like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard shine. Arsenal’s attack is more fluid now, scoring more from midfield.
Spanish outlet AS says he’s “on fire” for Arsenal. Even rivals admit he’s raised the team’s level.
Overcoming Doubts
At first, some fans worried about the price. This is because the price of €69m could be used for various purposes such as long term signing, buying backup players, even signing a star player who is looking for a new club or a decent deal that can be hijacked. Moreover, Zubimendi was unknown in England, and €69m is a lot. But he’s silenced critics. Unlike some big-money flops, he’s consistent and injury-free.
His story is inspiring. From Real Sociedad’s youth team, he stayed loyal until Arsenal called. Now 27, he’s in his prime. Real Madrid might regret not signing him, as their midfield struggles. Arsenal’s owners backed Arteta’s vision. This signing shows patience pays off. The team is on track for the title, thanks to Zubimendi.
See also Ian Wright comments on the Cody Gakpo transfer to Liverpool
Impact Beyond the Pitch
Martin Zubimendi is humble and team-focused. He speaks little but leads by example. Young players look up to him. His arrival boosted squad morale. In Europe, he’s helping in the Champions League too. Arsenal topped their group, with Zubimendi key in big wins. If he keeps this up, he could win Player of the Season. For now, he’s clearly the best signing. Other clubs spent more but got less value.
In summary, Martin Zubimendi is Arsenal’s €69m gem. He’s the Premier League’s signing of the season because of his skill, fit, and results. With him, Arsenal looks set for trophies. The future is bright at the Emirates.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Six Sports as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Add as a preferred source on Google
Mentioned in this Article
Recommended for you