“I Was Considering Joining Arsenal, But…” – Zubimendi Reveals Why He Chose Real Madrid Over the Gunners
“Arsenal came calling, and for a moment, I thought the Emirates would be my new home. But then something happened during international training that changed everything,” Martín Zubimendi confessed in a candid interview that has sent shockwaves through the football world.
The Spanish midfielder, who recently completed a high-profile move to Real Madrid, revealed how a conversation with his international teammate, Mikel Merino, played a decisive role in his decision to snub Arsenal and join Los Blancos instead.
“I was genuinely considering Arsenal,” Zubimendi admitted. “The project seemed exciting, and I could see myself fitting into their midfield. But during a training camp with the national team, Mikel [Merino] and I had a long conversation. He shared some things about the club – things I won’t repeat here – that made me rethink everything. After that, I realized Real Madrid was the better option for me.”
While Zubimendi refrained from divulging the exact details of Merino’s revelations, his words have sparked speculation among fans and pundits alike. What secrets could Merino have possibly shared about Arsenal that would deter a top talent like Zubimendi from joining?
Some believe it could be concerns about the pressure of playing in the Premier League, while others suggest it might involve Arsenal’s handling of players or the competitiveness of their squad. Whatever it was, it was enough to make Zubimendi pivot toward Madrid.
In his new role at the Bernabéu, Zubimendi is expected to be a key figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield rebuild. “Real Madrid is the pinnacle of football. When they call, it’s hard to say no,” he added.
Arsenal fans, however, are left wondering: What could have been? And more importantly, what are these secrets Merino knows about their beloved club? The mystery lingers.