Mikel Arteta’s Influence Leads Zubimendi to Arsenal
Martin Zubimendi, the rising star from Real Sociedad, initially turned down a move to Liverpool in 2024 but eventually made the switch to Arsenal a year later. The decision was influenced by the departure of key players from his former club, which motivated Zubimendi to remain in Spain for another season before making his move to the Premier League.
Zubimendi’s stock rose after his standout performance in the Euro 2024 final win over England, where he played a crucial role in securing the victory for Spain. Despite offers from top clubs like Liverpool, the midfielder chose to stay at Real Sociedad to “take that weight” and help the team cope with the loss of star players like Robin Le Normand and Mikel Merino.
In the end, it was Arsenal who secured Zubimendi’s signature for £60 million, with the player citing Mikel Arteta’s influence as a key factor in his decision. Arteta’s passion for the game and attention to detail convinced Zubimendi that Arsenal was the right fit for him, with the midfielder praising the Gunners’ squad profile and style of play.
Not really sure why this matters, but Zubimendi revealed that his manager at Real Sociedad, Imanol Alguacil, played a significant role in his decision-making process. Alguacil highlighted the quality of life in San Sebastian and reminded Zubimendi of the things he would miss if he left, including the scenic Ulia Mountain range and the delicious Basque cuisine that he grew up with.
Overall, Zubimendi’s journey from turning down Liverpool to joining Arsenal showcases the impact of key figures like Arteta and Alguacil in shaping a player’s career path. The midfielder’s decision to stay in Spain for another year before making the move to the Premier League highlights the importance of loyalty and personal growth in a player’s development.
Maybe it’s just me, but it seems like Zubimendi’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship and guidance in the world of football. The influence of experienced managers and coaches can often be the deciding factor in a player’s career choices, ultimately shaping their trajectory in the sport. As Zubimendi embarks on this new chapter with Arsenal, it will be interesting to see how Arteta’s coaching style and philosophy continue to impact his development on the pitch.
