Martin Zubimendi’s Arsenal career couldn’t have started much better.
The Spanish midfielder, who joined from Real Sociedad earlier this summer, has settled into life in North London with remarkable ease. After completing a full pre-season under Mikel Arteta, he already looks like a key cog in the Gunners’ midfield.
On Saturday, Zubimendi produced his most complete performance yet in Arsenal colours, running the show in a dominant 3-0 victory over Athletic Club at the Emirates. Goals from Viktor Gyökeres, Bukayo Saka, and Kai Havertz sealed the win, but it was Zubimendi’s influence in the middle of the park that truly set the tone.
Mastering the Midfield
Lining up alongside Declan Rice and captain Martin Ødegaard, Zubimendi dictated the tempo with a blend of calm passing, intelligent positioning, and defensive steel. Whether it was breaking up play or launching attacking moves, the 25-year-old looked like he had been part of Arteta’s system for years — not just over a month.
His movement off the ball ensured Arsenal stayed compact defensively, while his vision and quick decision-making kept the attack flowing. The chemistry he has already built with Rice and Ødegaard is particularly exciting for fans, and Zubimendi himself is clearly enjoying the partnership.
Zubimendi on Rice and Ødegaard
Speaking to Arsenal.com after the game, Zubimendi was full of admiration for his midfield teammates.
“It was very easy – the team made it very easy for me. I think the rest of the team has integrated very well, and the people on and off the pitch are very friendly.
[Declan and Martin Ødegaard] are top players, the best in their position. It’s time to learn, adapt and enjoy it above all.”
That humility, combined with his on-field quality, is one of the reasons why Arteta was so keen to bring him to the Emirates.
The Signing of the Summer?
While much of the summer buzz has surrounded Viktor Gyökeres, who has already shown signs of being the prolific striker Arsenal have craved for years, Zubimendi might quietly prove to be the most impactful addition of all.
Against Athletic Club, Arsenal looked in complete control from the first whistle to the last — and much of that was down to the Spaniard’s dominance in midfield. His ability to shield the defence, progress the ball, and link with the attack could make him one of the Premier League’s standout performers this season.
If Zubimendi stays fit and maintains this level of form, Arsenal’s ambitions of winning silverware on multiple fronts will be far more realistic.
Final Verdict:
Zubimendi hasn’t just arrived at Arsenal — he’s already dictating games and building partnerships that could define the club’s season. With Rice and Ødegaard alongside him, the Gunners’ midfield looks ready to go toe-to-toe with any side in Europe.
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