Arsenal Star Reportedly Considering January Exit After Limited Game Time in Fresh Blow for Arteta
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi is reportedly contemplating a January move away from the Emirates Stadium after finding it difficult to secure regular playing time at the beginning of the new campaign.
The Spain international arrived from Real Sociedad in July 2025 in a deal worth around £60 million and enjoyed an impressive first season with the Gunners, featuring in every Premier League match as Arsenal secured the league title.
However, his role appears to have changed this season. Zubimendi has played only 59 minutes across Arsenal’s opening four Premier League fixtures, leaving him frustrated by his lack of opportunities.
With Bruno Guimaraes, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Myles Lewis-Skelly seemingly ahead of him in Arteta’s midfield hierarchy, competition for a regular starting place has become increasingly difficult.
Reports suggest the 27-year-old could consider pushing for a transfer in January if his situation fails to improve before the end of the year. Real Madrid are also reportedly still monitoring his situation.
Arteta previously described Zubimendi as “a really important player” and praised his role during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
For now, the midfielder remains part of Arteta’s plans, but his lack of minutes has inevitably raised questions about whether he could still be at Arsenal beyond January.
