Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has moved to dismiss speculation surrounding his future at the Emirates Stadium, insisting that he remains happy at the club despite reports linking him with a possible departure ahead of the January transfer window.
The Spanish international has been the subject of growing transfer rumours in recent weeks, with Atletico Madrid reportedly among the clubs monitoring his situation following his reduced involvement in Arsenal’s starting line-up this season.
However, the 27-year-old has played down suggestions that he is considering an exit, making it clear that his immediate priority is fighting for regular playing time under manager Mikel Arteta.
Speaking in an interview with Spanish newspaper Marca on Wednesday, Zubimendi expressed surprise at the reports suggesting that he could be approaching the end of his Arsenal spell.
“I haven’t wasted any energy on it, nor have I got in touch with anyone. I’ve got enough on my plate just trying to earn a place, get some playing time and fight to win this Premier League,” he said.
The midfielder also questioned the accuracy of some transfer reports, urging journalists to exercise greater caution when publishing stories about players’ futures.
“I understand the transfer window is approaching and rumours can surface, but I think we need to be a bit more careful with what we publish,” he added.
Zubimendi’s comments come at a time when competition for midfield positions at Arsenal has intensified, making it increasingly difficult for him to enjoy the same level of involvement he experienced during his first campaign in England.
The former Real Sociedad star was an important figure for Arteta last season, making 57 appearances across all competitions after completing his move to North London in the summer of 2025.
However, the arrival of additional midfield options has changed the situation, leaving the Spaniard with a greater challenge in his pursuit of regular minutes.
Despite the circumstances, Zubimendi revealed that Arteta had explained the club’s plans to him before the beginning of the current campaign, warning him that competition would increase following new arrivals.
“I spoke with Mikel at the beginning of the season. As he does with all the players, he explained the plan to me. He warned me that there were new signings and that there would be playing time for everyone. And here we are, fighting for it,” he explained.
Rather than expressing frustration over his reduced opportunities, the midfielder acknowledged the quality within Arsenal’s squad, describing the club as one of the five best teams in Europe.
He believes the presence of several top-quality players naturally makes securing a regular starting position difficult, particularly with new arrivals strengthening the competition in his department.
“I understand because, for me, we’re among the five best teams in Europe. There are some fantastic players. New signings have arrived in my position, and there were already some very good players. I’m also part of that competition that makes it so difficult to get playing time,” he said.
Zubimendi also admitted that the demanding schedule of his first season in English football had taken a physical toll on him, having been heavily involved in Arsenal’s campaign.
The midfielder acknowledged that playing an enormous number of minutes in a new country and adapting to a different footballing environment contributed to his fatigue towards the end of last season.
He nevertheless believes his current situation can change quickly, pointing out that his role was significantly different during his first campaign.
The Spaniard further explained that he has remained patient and positive, recognising that difficult periods can provide valuable lessons in a footballer’s career.
With the January transfer window approaching, speculation about his future could continue, particularly if his opportunities remain limited. Nevertheless, his latest comments provide a strong indication that he has no immediate intention of forcing a move away from Arsenal.
When asked whether he hoped to remain at the Emirates for the rest of the season, Zubimendi gave a positive response, reiterating his satisfaction with life at the club.
“Yes, I hope so. I’m happy there,” he said.
For Arteta, the midfielder’s determination to fight for his place offers another option as Arsenal pursue their domestic and European ambitions. For now, Zubimendi appears more interested in winning back a regular role than considering an early return to Spanish football.
