Declan Rice is seemingly very happy with one of Mikel Arteta’s summer purchases, with the Englishman sending a message to one of the recruits, implying that he is magic.
It’s been a busy old window at the Emirates. The biggest of the arrivals has to be Viktor Gyokeres, who signed in a bumper deal from Sporting Lisbon to lead the line for Mikel Arteta’s side in the Premier League this season.
Aside from the Swede, they have also made cheaper smart signings of Christian Norgaard and Christian Mosquera, plus Arsenal secured Martin Zubimendi’s signature.
Arsenal Unveil New Signing Martin Zubimendi
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
The latter has particularly impressed his midfield partner in North London, Declan Rice.
Declan Rice implies that Martin Zubimendi is a magician
Zubimendi took to Instagram on Sunday evening to post a compilation of photos that show his pre-season campaign at Arsenal.
Rice was found in the comments, where the England international commented with the wand emoji, implying that Zubimendi is, in fact, magic. Which he is, with his feet.
Declan Rice wand emoji comment on Instagram
The comments were also adorned with fans echoing ‘magician’ shouts – and it’s no surprise given what Zubimendi has showcased in Arsenal pre-season.
Mikel Arteta lauds Arsenal midfielder Zubimendi
Zubimendi’s Arsenal debut came against AC Milan, where he showcased the first of his abilities to Gunners supporters.
But on Saturday afternoon, Zubimendi had his best game yet as Arsenal took on Athletic Bilbao at the Emirates.
Martin Zubimendi of Arsenal during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Athletic Club at Emirates Stadium
Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
The Spaniard assisted Gyokeres’ first-ever Arsenal goal, with a delicious delivery that found the head of the Swede and nestled into the back of the net.
Arteta was full of praise for him at full-time. “The quality of the delivery from Zubi, absolutely top,” he said.
“I think he was incredible today, the way he played throughout the game and for Viktor as well to get out that first goal, I think is very, very important psychologically.
“Again, he was involved in a lot of very important actions in the game. Kai came in and scored an incredible goal as well. So, I’m very happy with the team today.”
Now, he’ll be looking ahead to a week, when Arsenal take on Manchester United in a blockbuster opening Premier League fixture for the 25/26 season.