Arsenal Star Reportedly Ready to Leave After Just Five Games in Major Blow for Arteta
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi is reportedly considering a January departure from the Emirates after struggling for regular playing time at the start of the new season.
The Spanish midfielder joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in a £60 million deal in July 2025 and played a key role during the Gunners’ Premier League title-winning campaign, featuring in every league match.
However, his situation has changed significantly this season. Zubimendi has been given limited opportunities, making just 59 minutes across Arsenal’s first four Premier League matches.
With Bruno Guimaraes, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Myles Lewis-Skelly currently ahead of him in the midfield pecking order, his chances of becoming a regular starter appear increasingly limited.
Reports claim Zubimendi could push for a move in January if his situation does not improve before the turn of the year. Real Madrid are also said to have maintained an interest in the 27-year-old.
Interestingly, Mikel Arteta previously insisted that Zubimendi remains “a really important player” for Arsenal and praised his contribution to the club’s title-winning season.
Whether Arteta’s stance changes by January remains to be seen, but Zubimendi’s lack of minutes has raised serious questions over his future in north London.
