Arsenal has signed Spain international Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for a reported £51 million, satisfying his release clause and securing a long-term contract.

The Winning Strategy

This move was planned and years in the planning; it was not a last-minute rush.  In the summer of 2023, Arsenal first made contact with Real Sociedad about signing Zubimendi and Mikel Medino, a Basque midfielder who moved to north London in 2024.  Real agreed to Arsenal’s staggered plan, which acknowledged the challenge of acquiring both players at the same time and called for Merino to sign first, followed by Zubimendi a year later.

Zubimendi had made his ambitions apparent, but the purchase finally came together in March 2025, overcoming out interest from elite teams like Liverpool and even Real Madrid, whose pull was strong after Xabi Alonso’s arrival.

A Midfield Maestro

Zubimendi, who is frequently described as a cross between a contemporary Xabi Alonso and Gen-Z Busquets, is the perfect deep-lying playmaker.  He was hailed by Spain coach Luis de la Fuente as being “second only to Rodri,” and his command of the midfield during Euro 2024 contributed to the continuation of Spain’s title run.

Statistics highlight his impact: he was one of the top five midfielders in La Liga last season for long, progressive passes.  The hallmarks of a top-tier No. 6 are effective tackles, interceptions, and aerial duels, all of which he excelled at.

The Arteta Connection

The move is extremely personal and reflects more than simply strategy.  Having played at junior academies like Antiguoko and progressed through Real Sociedad’s ranks, Zubimendi and manager Mikel Arteta both have Basque ancestry.

Over the past year, Arteta’s direct involvement has been crucial in enhancing the club’s reputation as a team that carefully considers its options rather than chasing big-name acquisitions.  Zubimendi “was a key target” and a superb systemic fit, according to Sporting director Andrea Berta, who echoed this.

Transforming the Engine Room

In keeping with Arsenal’s development under Arteta and after the historic signing of Declan Rice in 2023, Zubimendi’s arrival signifies a midfield revamp in response to the departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey.  There is a definite expectation:

Taking the base, Zubimendi controls the pace, re-uses possession, and protects the back four.

Released from deeper responsibilities, Rice moves to a No. 8 position.

At the top of midfield, Martin Ødegaard continues to be the creative engine.

Arteta emphasized the Spaniard “will bring a huge amount of quality and football intelligence” .

Investing in Control: Was It Worth It?

Some critics referred to the arrangement as a “overpayment,” pointing out that the £51 million charge marginally outweighed the €60 million release clause, presumably because of the option to pay in installments.  However, Arsenal made a firm commitment to their midfield architect, indicating their desire to solidify their position among England’s top players.

Spending so much on a specialist midfield enforcer at a time when the club’s previous summer transfers, including Kepa Arrizabalaga and an anticipated move for Christian Nørgaard, totaled over £60 million, shows a significant shift in financial allocation.

Challenges Ahead

Although Zubimendi has received a lot of acclaim for his intelligence and accuracy, the Premier League’s demanding physical and tempo-driven environment will put his versatility to the test.  Analysts, however, remain optimistic:

He is one of La Liga’s greatest in both aerial combat and ground-duel success.

His distribution is still progressive and varied, which is a quality Arsenal needs to breach dense defenses.

One more smooth asset?  Merino is joined by Zubimendi, who facilitates his smooth transition as the two get back together.

Looking Ahead

With Arsenal’s official 2025–26 campaign opener scheduled for August 17 against Manchester United, Zubimendi joins the team ahead of their Asia preseason trip, which includes games against AC Milan, Newcastle, and Tottenham.

Zubimendi’s arrival should allow the Gunners to access additional tactical layers as Arteta’s system develops, offering both innovative security and a pleasing shape.

Final Thought

Arsenal is making a planned chess play by pursuing Martín Zubimendi strategically.  Their goal is to control games, develop midfield roles, and ultimately turn finishing situations into trophies, and they have found a patient, clever midfield player whose distinct profile fits the bill.

With his international background, regional ties to Arteta, and long-standing relationship with Merino, Zubimendi stands out as the key that Arsenal needs to make their ambitions of winning a trophy come true.