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Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has responded to the ongoing speculation linking him with Real Madrid, at a time when the Spanish club is enduring a challenging season. Los Blancos have already dismissed manager Xabi Alonso, replaced him with Alvaro Arbeloa, and currently sit second in La Liga. They have been knocked out of the Copa del Rey and must face Benfica in a play-off to secure qualification for the last 16 of the Champions League.

Zubimendi thriving at Arsenal

Zubimendi joined Arsenal during a busy summer transfer window, completing a move from Real Sociedad worth approximately £60 million (€70m/$83m). The Spanish international was among several high-profile arrivals, with Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie, and Viktor Gyokeres also joining the Gunners as Mikel Arteta strengthened his squad to challenge for trophies in the 2025-26 season.

Since arriving at the Emirates, Zubimendi has made 33 appearances across all competitions, registering five goals and three assists. His contributions have helped Arsenal rise to the top of the Premier League standings, while the club has also topped its Champions League group, reached the Carabao Cup final, and advanced to the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Zubimendi dismisses Real Madrid links

Despite Arsenal’s impressive form, Real Madrid’s struggles have prompted suggestions that Zubimendi could be the player Los Blancos need to rejuvenate their squad. When asked about these rumours, the midfielder was quick to downplay the speculation. Speaking to Cadena SER, he said: “I don’t think so. Real Madrid already have enough quality players to perform well, so no.”

Zubimendi also reflected on Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware this season after their Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Chelsea. He remarked: “We’ve taken the first step, but we know there are three very important months ahead. The goal now is to win the trophy. The league table looks great, but we’ll see who finishes on top.”

The Spaniard featured again in the win against Chelsea and spoke about how well he has settled at Arsenal. “When you feel valued and get regular playing time, it’s incredibly satisfying,” he said. “I’ve adapted well to the league, but I’ve realised that the matches are very demanding. Everyone presses intensely, and the overall level is very high.”

Arteta praises ‘phenomenal’ Zubimendi

Manager Mikel Arteta has been full of admiration for Zubimendi’s performances this season, especially after the Spaniard scored in the first leg of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea. Speaking after the match, Arteta commented: “Towards the end, when it was 3-1 and we were dominating, we had two massive chances to make it four. That would have changed the game completely. Then they had a chance, created a corner, scored, and suddenly it was game on again. It wasn’t perfect, but we have to appreciate what the team achieved once more.”

Arteta continued: “When we talk about Zubi, what more can he do? Honestly, he can do anything. He has attributes similar to Declan’s. We just need to keep unlocking that potential in his mind and his game. He’s fantastic at finding space, carrying the ball forward, winning duels, and showing composure in the final third. What he produced today was phenomenal.”

The road ahead

Arsenal remain in contention for all four major competitions, and Arteta expressed his delight after his side secured a Carabao Cup final date with either Newcastle United or Manchester City. He said: “We’re absolutely delighted. Over the two legs, I think we deserved to progress. It was a long, hard-fought tie, and we finished it beautifully with Kai [Havertz] scoring in the way he did. The atmosphere in the stadium, the effort from the starters and substitutes, the energy from the staff — it was magical. I’m really proud because it was a tough match against a top side, and now we’re going to Wembley.”

The Gunners will now return their focus to Premier League action as they prepare to host Sunderland on Saturday.