Zubimendi may seek January exit from Arsenal after losing starting spot

Martin Zubimendi’s Arsenal career appears to be approaching a crossroads barely 14 months after it started. The 27-year-old Spanish midfielder, who arrived from Real Sociedad in July 2025 for a reported €70 million (£60 million), has indicated he could push for a move in January if his playing time doesn’t improve under Mikel Arteta. The 2026/27 season has seen Zubimendi reduced to a squad player role, with competition from newer arrivals like Bruno Guimaraes squeezing him out of the starting lineup. From key signing to peripheral figure When Arsenal secured Zubimendi’s signature on a five-year deal running through 2030, it felt like a statement of intent. The fee, roughly £60 million, reflected his standing as one of La Liga’s most complete midfielders. His debut season offered enough to justify the investment. Zubimendi contributed goals across the Premier League and cup competitions during the 2025/26 campaign. Zubimendi has found himself starting mainly as a rotation option rather than a first-choice midfielder in the current season. No shortage of suitors Reports from early September indicate that Chelsea and Real Madrid have both expressed interest in the Spaniard. Chelsea’s ...