The whispers started last summer, a quiet pursuit by Real Madrid for a player who could redefine their midfield. Their roster already gleamed with talent – Valverde, Camavinga, Tchouameni, Bellingham, and Guler – yet a crucial element remained elusive: a commanding, controlling force. A presence, many believed, embodied by one man now thriving elsewhere.
That man is Zubimendi, and after a recent victory, Spanish radio pressed him on the suggestion that he possessed precisely what Real Madrid lacked. His response was surprisingly dismissive, a staunch defense of the Spanish giants’ existing capabilities. “I don’t think so,” he asserted, “Madrid has more than enough players to do well. No way, no way.”
Zubimendi’s impact hasn’t been felt in Madrid, but in London, with Arsenal. His arrival has coincided with a remarkable shift in the Gunners’ fortunes, a resurgence after years of near misses. A trophy drought stretching back to 2020, and a league title eluding them for 22 years, suddenly feels within reach.
The possibility of four trophies this season is no longer a distant hope, but a tangible goal, solidified by a confirmed date at Wembley. Zubimendi acknowledges the weight of expectation, the crucial months ahead. “We’ve taken the first step,” he stated, “but then we have to win it.”
Their recent clash against Chelsea was a testament to their newfound resilience, a hard-fought victory secured by a late goal. Zubimendi recognized the quality of their opponents, but emphasized his team’s determination. “It was a very difficult match,” he conceded, “Chelsea has a great team, but we were able to score the goal at the end and secure qualification.”
The Premier League title, however, remains the ultimate prize. When asked if that was the dream, Zubimendi’s response was measured, yet filled with conviction. “Well, among other things, yes,” he admitted. “The complete dream would include more things, but I’ve realised that it’s given a lot of importance here, and after everything I’ve experienced at Arsenal, we really deserve it, because it’s very difficult to win.”
