Martin Zubimendi has insisted he wants to stay at Arsenal despite his reduced role under Mikel Arteta and reports linking him with Atletico Madrid.
The Spain midfielder has played only 100 minutes across seven Premier League appearances this season after featuring in all 38 matches during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign last term. He has dismissed suggestions that he could leave in January and says his focus is on earning more opportunities.
“I realise the winter transfer window is coming up, and rumours may start to circulate,” he told Marca while on international duty with Spain.
“I’ve also read that a move [to Atletico] might be on the cards, but that’s far from the case. I haven’t wasted any energy on it, nor have I got in touch with anyone. I haven’t wasted any energy on external matters.”
Zubimendi, whose contract runs until June 2030, also made clear that he is settled in north London.
“Yes, I hope so,” he said when asked if he expected to remain at Arsenal until the end of the season. “I’m happy there. I’m happy in London.”
The 27-year-old believes the heavy workload of last season may have contributed to his current difficulties. He played regularly as Arsenal won the Premier League title and Spain lifted the 2026 World Cup.
“I played an enormous number of minutes [last season], and, to be honest, I was tired,” he said. “There were other factors, too, but the physical aspect could very well have been one of them.”
He has considered seeking psychological support but said he was coping well with the change in his circumstances.
“I’ve thought about it and wouldn’t rule it out, but for now, I haven’t gone down that path,” he said. “I’m well, I’m calm and happy with how I’m handling this situation.”
Zubimendi added that the support of those close to him had been important during a difficult spell. He also said he was trying to take positives from having a different role in the team.
His reduced involvement has come amid increased competition in Arsenal’s midfield. Zubimendi said Arteta had warned him before the season that new arrivals would make selection more difficult.
“I spoke to Mikel [Arteta] at the start of the season,” he said. “As he does with all the players, he explained the plan to me briefly. He told me there were some new signings and that there would be playing time for everyone.”
