Arsenal seal Zubimendi signing after Real Madrid opt out

Romano and Ornstein confirm full agreement

Arsenal have reached a full agreement with Real Sociedad to sign Martín Zubimendi. Fabrizio Romano confirmed the deal in May using his signature “Here we go” phrase. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Gunners agreed to pay above the midfielder’s €60 million release clause—reportedly settling on a figure of £55 million. The paperwork will be finalised in early July to align with Real Sociedad’s accounting calendar.

Madrid interest never materialised

Marca reports that although Real Madrid have long admired Zubimendi, they never activated their interest. The club already have Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde covering similar roles, making a new addition in that area unnecessary this summer.

Arsenal’s clear path to a starting role

While Real Madrid offer more European prestige, Arsenal present a far more direct path to regular minutes. With Jorginho having left and Thomas Partey’s future uncertain, Mikel Arteta has a clear vacancy at the base of midfield. Zubimendi is expected to anchor the system behind Declan Rice, giving the England international greater freedom to attack.

Zubimendi’s 2024–25 campaign

Zubimendi featured in 48 matches for Real Sociedad across all competitions during the 2024–25 season, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists. While not a headline-grabbing stat line, his consistency and tactical discipline were vital to the team’s structure.

Game intelligence and positioning

One of Zubimendi’s most defining traits is his intelligence without the ball. He positions himself effectively to shield the backline and limit space between the lines. His awareness in transition ensures defensive integrity even when the team is unsettled.

Rather than diving into challenges, Zubimendi anticipates danger and reacts early. He tracks runners well and excels in maintaining compactness during defensive transitions.

Passing quality and build-up control

Stylistically, Zubimendi resembles a traditional “regista.” His short and mid-range passing exceeds 90% accuracy, and he reliably initiates build-up play from deep. He remains composed under pressure and links play through tight areas with minimal touches.

He is also adept at switching the play with accurate diagonal passes, and his first-touch distribution aids in bypassing opposition pressure during transitions.

Defensive skill set

Zubimendi defends with calm precision rather than aggression. He prefers to intercept passes and read the game rather than slide into tackles. His ability to recover the ball without destabilising the shape makes him a tactical asset in structured systems.

Though not physically imposing, he uses intelligent body positioning to win duels. His contribution rarely makes headlines but is key to controlling tempo.

Physical profile and movement

Standing at 1.81m, Zubimendi isn’t the most powerful midfielder, but he compensates with stamina and short-distance acceleration. He maintains a consistent intensity over 90 minutes and stays tactically engaged in all phases.

He doesn’t offer much in terms of ball-carrying or dribbling but instead orchestrates play through precise distribution. His role is defined by balance, not flash.

Limitations

Creativity in the final third is limited. He rarely attempts risky vertical passes and has a minimal goal threat. His shot volume is low, and he seldom pushes into attacking zones. These limitations make him better suited to systems that emphasise positional discipline over improvisation.

Key 2024–25 metrics (via FBref)

• Passing accuracy: 91.2%

• Tackles per game: 2.3

• Interceptions per game: 1.9

• Progressive passes per game: 5.8

• Ball recoveries after defensive actions: High

Player comparison

Zubimendi is often likened to a young Sergio Busquets due to his positional instincts, though he lacks the same level of control over tempo. A more apt comparison might be Jorginho during his prime—disciplined, intelligent, and tactically irreplaceable.

Player comments

In early June, Zubimendi addressed speculation about his future with dry humour: “I usually wake up to read about things I didn’t even know I did.” He added, “Of course there are options, but it looks like a long summer ahead—and I don’t know how it will end.”