Spain international Martin Zubimendi has joined Arsenal on a long-term contract. He is the Arsenal’s second summer signing following the earlier arrival of Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from their London rivals, Chelsea Football Club.
Prior to this switch to North London, 26-year-old Zubimendi made 236 appearances in all competitions at first-team level for Real Sociedad in Spain. He is a graduate of Real Sociedad’s academy.
Along with another thriving Gunner, Mikel Merino, Martin helped Real Sociedad to win the 2019/20 Copa del Rey against intercity rivals Athletic Club; he also played a prominent role in helping Real Sociedad to secure their highest league finish in recent history as they ended the 2022/23 season in fourth place to secure Champions League football for only the third time, and the first in 10 years.
Arsenal Manager, Mikel Arteta said: “Martin is a player who will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence to our team. He will fit in really well and he has all the attributes to be a key player for us.
“The standard he has consistently performed at over the last few seasons for both club and country is exactly why we are so excited to have him with us. We all welcome Martin and his family to the club.”
The Club’s Sporting Director, Andrea Berta, added: “We are so happy to bring Martin to Arsenal and have a lot of pride in finalising this transfer. Martin was a key target for us and we all know that he is a perfect fit for our squad with the high quality he has.
“We welcome Martin and his family to the club. We look forward to him settling in with his teammates and are very excited to see him playing in an Arsenal shirt.”
According to Martin: “This is a huge moment in my career. It’s the move I was looking for and one I wanted to make. As soon as you set foot here, you realise how big this club and this team are.
“I set my sights on Arsenal because their style of play is a good fit for me. They have shown their potential recently and the best is yet to come.”
He will wear the number 36 shirt and will join up with his new teammates at the Sobha Realty Training Centre when the team report for pre-season.
