Arsenal’s Champions League final preparations have gained another layer of intrigue after Martín Zubimendi discussed his recent spell on the bench.
The midfielder has been one of Arsenal’s most important players this season. After arriving from Real Sociedad last summer, Zubimendi quickly became a central figure in Arsenal’ Premier League-winning campaign.
However, ahead of Saturday’s final against PSG in Budapest, the Spain international acknowledged his recent lack of starts may not be accidental.
Before Arsenal’s final league game against Crystal Palace, Zubimendi had gone through four straight matches as a substitute.
Zubimendi staying calm over Arsenal role
Speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, he admitted the intensity of the season has pushed him harder than anything he experienced in Spain.
“It has been a very demanding season, a long one, in which I made efforts I wasn’t used to making in my career, and surely that has taken its toll on me,” he said.
Still, the midfielder made clear he now feels physically ready again.
Asked whether there should be concern ahead of the World Cup, Martín Zubimendi replied: “No, no, I’m fine.”
Despite the recent benchings, Zubimendi insisted he remains confident about his place in the side. It’s worth recalling he was recently linked with a move to Real Madrid.
“I always see myself in the team, another thing is what then happens,” he explained. “Lately, I haven’t been playing as much, but I’m prepared to go out and play. The overall balance of the Premier League season has been very good, and because of these bench appearances I’m not going to start thinking negatively.”
When pressed on whether he expects to start the final itself, the midfielder laughed before offering a diplomatic answer.
“I don’t know! Ask the mister,” he joked.
Zubimendi has still played 46 matches in all competitions this season, contributing four goals and seven assists. And he does have a pretty good career record when it comes to scoring in finals.
Arsenal confidence before PSG clash
Martín Zubimendi also spoke confidently about Arsenal’s mentality before facing PSG.
“We will approach the final with excitement and confidence,” he said. “Winning the Premier League gives us an extra boost for such a beautiful final. I’ve seen Arsenal spend many years suffering without winning, and now that past has finally been broken.”
The midfielder believes mentality and composure will be decisive against the French side.
“Confidence, knowing how to handle the occasion, and normalising the situation,” he said when asked what could make the difference in the final. “We have our weapons and we will try to make the most of them.”
Zubimendi also appeared relaxed about Arsenal entering the match as outsiders.
“Maybe we are not favourites, but once you are on the pitch it no longer matters who the favourite is.”
Defensive strength praised
Martín Zubimendi reserved special praise for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s defensive structure.
“Sometimes it feels like you need to win a title to receive credit, but I think Mikel was already there among the top coaches,” he explained. “Winning pushes you even higher and reflects the whole process he has built at the club.”
Asked whether Arsenal are stronger defensively or offensively, the Spaniard highlighted the team’s balance while stressing their defensive consistency.
“I think it’s a very complete team, but where it really stands out is defensively,” he said. “The number of clean sheets we have is incredible and that stands out even more.”
While questions remain over whether Zubimendi starts against PSG, there is little doubt he has become one of the foundations of Arteta’s side during a transformative season at the Emirates.