Arsenal new boy Martin Zubimendi reveals why he rejected Real Madrid to play for 'obsessive' Mikel Arteta

Zubimendi officially joined last season's Premier League runners-up this summer in a £60million deal, despite huge interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid. There was initially some doubt that Los Blancos would hijack the deal for the midfielder, but he has now revealed that he always wanted to link up with Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.

Speaking at the launch of Arsenal and adidas's new away kit, the Spaniard said: "I always wanted to respect Real Sociedad. But once Arsenal convinced me, I knew it was the right project. Signing for Arsenal is a big change for me. It's the change I wanted.

"And since the first day I've been here I've noticed the greatness of this club and I'm adapting. I don't know what Mikel Arteta saw in me, but what I saw in him is that he's a top coach in Europe. When I wanted to leave Real, I wanted a quality coach, and I think I've found one. I've seen how obsessive and detailed he is with his game, so I think I've found the right one."

Zubimendi forms part of Arsenal's new-look midfield following the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho. He will link up with Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and fellow newcomer Christian Norgaard as the Gunners look to finally end their trophy drought next season.

Arsenal and Zubimendi have flown out to Singapore to begin their pre-season preparations for the 2025-26 campaign. They will face AC Milan and Newcastle before taking on north London rivals Tottenham at the end of July.