Martin Zubimendi has opened up about the decisive phone call from Mikel Arteta that convinced him to choose Arsenal over Liverpool.

Arsenal completed a £51 million transfer for the midfielder in the summer, prying him away from Real Sociedad, where he had previously turned down a move to Liverpool.

Speaking about his decision, Zubimendi said he initially felt the timing wasn’t right to leave his boyhood club:

“When any proposal comes, the first question has to be whether to stay at La Real. It wasn’t the right moment. I stayed and it was a hard season, but I learned a lot.”

However, things changed when Arsenal and Arteta came calling.

“I had watched Arsenal and liked everything — the passion, the energy, the young squad. And when Mikel Arteta called me… if you’ve spoken to him, you’ll know how convincing he is,” Zubimendi revealed.
“He’s mad about football, obsessed with details, and very clear on everything. His proposal was the best for me.”

Since joining, the 26-year-old has made an impressive start in North London, helping the Gunners stay top of the Premier League after seven games. He has already made nine appearances, with standout performances — including a brace against Nottingham Forest in a 3-0 win.

Zubimendi has also featured for Spain during the international break, playing 81 minutes in their 2-0 win over Georgia.

Arsenal return to action this weekend with a short trip away to Fulham, as Zubimendi looks to continue his strong form.