Big signings usually come with fireworks, headlines, and transfer drama—but Arsenal chose a different route.
Behind the scenes, they were playing the long game.
And now, with Martín Zubimendi finally wearing red and white after a £51 million deal, that patience has paid off.
This wasn’t your typical summer swoop.
In fact, Arsenal’s move for Zubimendi—and fellow Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino—was part of a smart, carefully timed two-year plan that’s only just come to light.
Two Signings, One Strategy
It all began last summer when Arsenal triggered Merino’s release clause from Sociedad.
But instead of going all-in immediately on Zubimendi too, they staggered the move.
The plan? Sign Merino in 2024, then activate Zubimendi’s release clause a year later.
The result? Arsenal got two top talents without blowing their budget in one go.
At the same time, this approach allowed Thomas Partey’s contract to run its course naturally and gave Real Sociedad breathing room to replace two of their biggest stars.
According to manager Mikel Arteta, it was all part of a deliberate, calculated move.
Speaking during the Gunners’ pre-season tour in Singapore, he explained:
“It was a really well-orchestrated plan by the club.
We figured out a way to get what we wanted in two years, and both players were eager to come. That part matters a lot.”
Keeping the Deal Under Wraps
Despite serious late interest from European giants like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, Arsenal kept their pursuit of Zubimendi remarkably low-key.
Even Liverpool had tried to lure him the summer before, but the midfielder stayed loyal to the plan already in motion.
Arteta admitted there were tricky moments behind the scenes, but ultimately everything aligned:
“There’s always a point where I’m not involved and things get tough.
But when the player, the club, and the agent are all on the same page—it’s much more likely to go through.
And with Zubimendi, I always had a positive feeling.”
Zubimendi: “I Knew This Was the Right Move”
At the official launch of Arsenal’s new away kit in Singapore, Zubimendi and Merino finally spoke publicly about the long-anticipated move.
For Zubimendi, it was about more than just a new club—it was about choosing the right project and the right manager.
“I always wanted to respect Real Sociedad,” he said.
“But once Arsenal convinced me, I knew it was the right project.
Since arriving, I’ve felt how big this club is. I’m adapting quickly.”
He also had high praise for Arteta:
“I don’t know what he saw in me, but I saw a top coach in him.
When I was leaving Real, I wanted to work under a quality coach, and I think I’ve found that here.
He’s obsessive with the details, and that tells you everything.”
Taking Over From Partey—and Targeting Silverware
Zubimendi is expected to slot directly into Arsenal’s midfield as Thomas Partey’s long-term replacement.
But beyond just filling a role, he’s focused on helping the team make that final leap from contenders to champions.
“Football is all about the small details,” he said.
“I followed Arsenal in the Champions League, and they were the only team that truly stood up to PSG.
They just missed those fine margins. Hopefully, we can change that.”
The Start of a New Era?
With two top midfielders in the squad and a tactical vision in place, Arsenal fans have every reason to be excited.
This wasn’t just about big spending—it was about smart planning, mutual respect, and building something sustainable.
Whether this long play delivers trophies remains to be seen.
But one thing’s clear: Arsenal aren’t just signing players—they’re building a team with purpose.