Overview

• Zubimendi explains he turned down Liverpool in 2024 to stay at Real Sociedad, saying it was not the right time to leave and that he wanted to assume more responsibility there.
• He completed a summer 2025 move to Arsenal for about £55m on a five-year contract, with the Gunners negotiating structured payments rather than depositing the full release clause upfront.
• He credits Arteta’s “very convincing” pitch and obsession with details for sealing his decision, describing the project as the best fit for his game.
• The 26-year-old has settled quickly in north London, forming a midfield pairing with Declan Rice, starting regularly, and earning recognition including the Premier League Goal of the Month for a volley against Nottingham Forest.
• He says adapting to the Premier League’s physicality and set-piece emphasis is part of his growth, while recalling his “horrible” initiation song at Arsenal as the most uncomfortable off-field moment.