The highly-rated defensive midfielder officially completed his move to the Gunners this summer, with Arsenal reportedly activating his £51 million release clause from Real Sociedad. Zubimendi has signed a long-term contract,bolstering Arsenal’s midfield options.

His arrival is seen as a significant coup for the North London club, who had to fend off competition from Liverpool and Real Madrid for his signature. Zubimendi was reportedly close to joining Liverpool last season before the move ultimately fell through.

Speaking about his transfer, Zubimendi emphasized the impact of Arteta’s coaching ideology. “I have always respected Real Sociedad, but when Arsenal assured me to join, I knew this was the right project for me. Joining Arsenal is a big change for me, and I wanted that,” Zubimendi stated, as reported by the Daily Mail.

“I don’t know what Mikel Arteta saw in me, but I consider him a top coach in Europe,” he continued. “When I decided to leave Real Sociedad, I wanted to be coached by a top coach, and that is Arteta. I see him as someone who is incredibly obsessed and very detailed with tactics, so I felt I had found the right coach.”

Zubimendi is expected to fill the void left by Thomas Partey, whose contract with Arsenal has expired.