Martin Zubimendi has put ongoing speculation linking him to Real Madrid to rest as he denied those reports in a radio interview.
Martin Zubimendi has been a revelation at Arsenal since his £60 million move back in the summer from Real Sociedad. It appeared that the Gunners had agreed a deal for the midfielder way earlier than his summer transfer date suggested, although the journey between then and signing on the dotted line was full of speculation.
The main character in this saga was Real Madrid, and former boss Xabi Alonso’s need for a new controlling midfielder following the departure of Luka Modric. The Spanish coach reportedly regrets losing out on Zubimendi as a target back in the summer, when speculation was rife that the Spanish giants were ready to hijack Arsenal’s move for the star.
The Arsenal powerhouse, who cost £60 million, was also not clear with his ideas in some comments before his transfer materialised. However, insiders have always stated that Arsenal had wrapped up the deal very early, even before Real Madrid came into the picture and were in total control.
However, the speculation and links with Real Madrid have not gone away since, as there are fresh rumours about it still. However, Martin Zubimendi has now cleared the air and denied any connections to those rumours when asked on El Larguero, a Spanish radio station.
When asked about the Real Madrid links, Zubimendi said, “I don’t think so. Real Madrid has more than enough players to do well, so no.”
The Arsenal mainstay, who cost £60 million, has been sensational for Mikel Arteta’s side, cementing his place in the midfield alongside Declan Rice. He has proved to be the right replacement for Thomas Partey, and his overall game has been helpful for the Gunners’ progression.
Martin Zubimendi has also chipped in with goals and assists this season, and was instrumental in both legs of the Carabao Cup semifinal with Chelsea. As Arsenal reached the final of the competition, it was Zubimendi’s goal at Stamford Bridge that allowed the Gunners to take a slender lead to the Emirates, which they protected well before Kai Havertz scored a late winner on Tuesday.
Arteta will be pleased with the Spanish international’s work so far in the team, and will be glad of former director Edu Gaspar for tying up the deal. As for the ongoing Real Madrid rumours, as Zubimendi said, there is no chance they’ll get him anytime soon, given his importance to this Arsenal side.
