Overview

• Zubimendi says he turned down a 2024 move to Liverpool because it “wasn’t the right moment” and he wanted to assume more responsibility at Real Sociedad after key departures.
• He credits Mikel Arteta’s clarity and obsessive attention to detail for convincing him that Arsenal’s project and his defined role were the best fit.
• Arsenal signed the 26-year-old for around £55m this summer, with some reports indicating they paid above a ~£51m clause to secure more favourable payment terms, and he agreed a five-year deal.
• He has settled quickly in north London, making nine appearances, scoring twice and forming a productive partnership with Declan Rice, including a Premier League Goal of the Month volley against Nottingham Forest.
• He is currently with Spain for World Cup qualifying, starting alongside Mikel Merino in the 2-0 win over Georgia, with Arsenal teammate David Raya also in the squad.