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Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has declared that “the best is yet to come” as the Gunners complete their final preparations for Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The 26-year-old Spanish international, signed from Real Sociedad for £60 million last month, has wasted no time making an impression under Mikel Arteta. He played a key role in Arsenal’s 3-0 Emirates Cup victory over Athletic Club at the weekend, delivering a pinpoint cross for Viktor Gyokeres’ opening goal.
Reflecting on his first weeks in North London, Zubimendi credited the warm welcome from his teammates, singling out Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard for helping him settle quickly.
“It was very easy, the team made it very easy for me,” he said. “The people on and off the pitch are very friendly. Declan and Martin are top players, the best in their positions. It’s time to learn, adapt and enjoy it above all.”
The Emirates Cup triumph capped a mixed pre-season for Arsenal, which featured three wins and two defeats. Zubimendi emphasised the importance of bouncing back after consecutive losses, noting that the club’s competitive mindset extends beyond official fixtures.
🗣️ “The team have made it easy for me”
Martin reflects on pre-season and settling into life as a Gunner 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 9, 2025
“It was an important game because we came from two defeats. Even if they were friendlies, this club doesn’t understand defeats in any context, so it was important to win and end pre-season with a good feeling.”
Looking ahead to the campaign, the midfielder stressed the need for adaptability and resilience. “This team has to adapt to all contexts, whether it’s losing or winning, with the aim of winning above all. Let’s hope we can get through these types of games and do great things,” he said.
Zubimendi also praised Arsenal’s global support, having witnessed the fanbase’s passion during the club’s Asia tour. “It’s a team that reaches the whole world. Even when we didn’t win, the atmosphere was incredible and it was even more so today,” he noted.
With the Spaniard joining an already formidable midfield alongside Rice and Odegaard, Arteta will be hoping his new signing can help drive a serious title challenge. And with the Premier League season set for unprecedented TV coverage, over 215 live matches on Sky Sports, the scrutiny on Arsenal will be intense from the first whistle.
As the Gunners prepare for a testing trip to Old Trafford, Zubimendi’s words reflect a growing optimism in the camp. “It’s a good end to pre-season, but the best is yet to come. The league is the league, we like to compete, we like to win. I’m very happy that it’s starting now,” he said.