Arteta Year-Long Plan: Zubimendi Joins Arsenal at Last

Mikel Arteta has finally completed one of his biggest transfer targets. After more than a year of patient planning, Arsenal has confirmed the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for £51 million.

The Spanish midfielder was not a last-minute solution. Instead, he was a long-term goal, identified early and pursued with consistency. Arteta always believed Zubimendi would complete his dream midfield.

This transfer signals more than ambition. It reflects the patience, clarity, and strategy Arsenal now applies to squad building.

Zubimendi Was on the Radar for Over a Year

Last summer, Arteta already had Zubimendi on his shortlist. He even considered signing both Zubimendi and Mikel Merino at once. However, Real Sociedad refused to lose both of their midfield leaders.

So Arsenal focused on Merino first. Meanwhile, they maintained a respectful connection with Zubimendi. They sent messages. They made calls. They showed interest without pushing too hard.

That careful, steady approach worked. Zubimendi stayed loyal to Real Sociedad at the time, but he began to admire what Arsenal offered.

Loyalty Kept Him in San Sebastián

Zubimendi spent 15 years at Real Sociedad. He came through their academy, wore their armband, and loved the city. He was a symbol of loyalty.

Last season, he turned down Liverpool despite a strong offer. He said he wasn’t ready to leave. Yet behind the scenes, Arsenal kept nurturing the relationship.

Arteta, born in Spain, spoke to Zubimendi with empathy. He understood his loyalty. He never pressured him but made sure Zubimendi knew he was wanted.

Arsenal’s Personal Approach Paid Off

When Zubimendi finally decided to leave Spain, his destination was clear. He wanted Arsenal. Not for money, but for fit, identity, and belief.

“Their playing style suits me,” he said. “It’s a team full of energy, youth, and ambition.”

He praised both Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta for staying close throughout the year.

“They treated me like family,” he said. “They gave me confidence in every step of this process.”

A Midfielder Built for Arsenal’s Style

Zubimendi is calm, intelligent, and technical. He reads the game quickly. He controls tempo. He rarely makes mistakes.

Arteta always wanted a midfielder like him. Someone who could anchor the midfield without losing rhythm or aggression.

Last season, Arsenal lacked depth when injuries hit the middle of the pitch. Now, with Zubimendi joining Declan Rice and Mikel Merino, Arsenal has one of the best-balanced midfields in Europe.

Fitness and Consistency Make Him Valuable

Another major strength of Zubimendi is his availability. He rarely misses games. That makes him even more valuable.

Arsenal struggled with injuries last season. Zubimendi adds reliability, both physically and tactically. He gives Arteta more options, more control, and fewer risks.

He also brings international experience. He won the European Championship with Spain. That winning mentality can lift the dressing room.