Martin Zubimendi insists he has settled quickly into life at Arsenal and says Mikel Arteta’s influence has been crucial in easing the challenges of adapting to a new club and league.
The Spain international midfielder arrived from Real Sociedad this summer with big expectations, seen by many as a long-term cornerstone of Arsenal’s midfield rebuild.
Moving from San Sebastian to north London was always going to be a major change, but Zubimendi says the process has been far more comfortable than he first imagined.
Backed by the trust of his manager and the support of familiar cultural ties the 26-year-old believes he is in the best possible environment to thrive.
“Coming to Arsenal is obviously a big change. It’s natural to feel a bit anxious about what might happen, but everything has gone very smoothly,” he told Arsenal’s official website.
Asked whether he fits the mould of a typical Basque personality, Zubimendi admitted:
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“I think we’re known for being a bit standoffish and maybe we’re not the type of people who are quick to speak up. But once we’re confident and comfortable, I think we become a different type of person.”
“So it’s helpful to have Mikel as my manager now definitely. After all, people from there know what we’re like, what we enjoy, how much something might be difficult for us, or how hard it might be to adapt.”
“I think Mikel understands my situation perfectly and is managing it in the best possible way.
“He’s a very detailed and demanding coach. But, all in all, I was playing a very similar style of football before, so I think I’ll be able to adapt well here as well.”
Zubimendi’s next Premier League encounter will come against Newcastle on Sunday afternoon, where he is expected to play a key role in midfield.
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