How Arteta convinced Zubimendi to turn his back on Real Madrid

Published:

By: Nicolas Gerbault

Martin Zubimendi made a strong choice by joining Arsenal during this summer transfer window. The Spanish midfielder swapped the Real Sociedad tunic for that of the Gunners.

The native of San Sebastián also had no shortage of suitors, since Real Madrid had also knocked on his door. But in the end, Mikel Arteta's words made the difference. The Spanish coach was able to convince his compatriot to join the Emirates. This was confirmed by Zubimendi in a recent interview with Guardian.

“He is very clear about what he wants”

“When Mikel Arteta called me… Well, if you've ever spoken to him you should know he can be very convincing. (…) He is passionate about football, obsessed with controlling and valuing every detail. He is very clear about what he wants, and the proposal he presented to me was the best”he confided.

Now integrated into the Arsenal rotation, Zubimendi is already establishing himself as an essential link in the London collective. In nine matches played in all competitions, he has already scored two goals, including a double in the 3-0 victory against Nottingham Forest on the 4th day of the championship.