Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi has dismissed rumors in Spain suggesting he is a player that Real Madrid needs.
The 27-year-old recently joined the North London club in a €70 million (£60m, $83m) deal from Real Sociedad this July, amidst speculation that former Madrid coach Xabi Alonso viewed him as the perfect successor to the departed Luka Modric.
When asked about the ongoing speculation regarding his fit for Madrid, Zubimendi told Cadena Ser radio: “I don’t think so. Real Madrid has more than enough players to succeed, so no.”
Zubimendi played the full 90 minutes on Tuesday, helping Arsenal secure a victory over Chelsea to advance to the Carabao Cup final.
“This is just the first step, but we recognize that there are three crucial months ahead,” Zubimendi said.
Currently, Arsenal is six points ahead of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League and has qualified for the Champions League round of 16, being the only team to win all eight group phase matches.
“Winning is what matters,” Zubimendi stated. “While the standings look good, the ultimate goal is to see who comes out on top.”
Since joining Arsenal, Zubimendi has adjusted well to the Premier League, contributing five goals and three assists in 33 appearances.
“Feeling valued and being on the pitch is incredibly reassuring,” he expressed.
“Adapting to the league has been positive, but I’ve noticed the matches are physically demanding, with everyone bringing their best, which raises the overall level.”
Additionally, Zubimendi mentioned that his teammate and fellow Spanish international Mikel Merino is aiming to recover from a foot injury in time for the World Cup.
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Merino suffered a stress fracture in his foot during Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat against Manchester United on January 25, which will sideline him for the remainder of the season.
“I know he’ll do everything possible to be ready for the World Cup, and I truly hope he can make it,” Zubimendi remarked. “It’s difficult to see him on the sidelines because I understand how professional he is and how much he desires to help us on the field. He’s the one who feels this the most, but his injury has significantly impacted the team.”