Martín Zubimendi Faces Uncertain Arsenal Future as Atlético Madrid Weigh January Move

Martín Zubimendi could be heading for a fresh start, with Atlético Madrid reportedly considering a January approach for the Arsenal midfielder. The Spanish international has struggled to secure a regular place at the Emirates, prompting interest from his homeland, according to reports cited by the article. Zubimendi joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2025 for a reported €70 million. He began brightly and was part of the squad that won the 2025/26 Premier League title, but his playing time declined during the latter part of that season. Arsenal’s subsequent signing of Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães, alongside the continued rise of academy player Myles Lewis-Skelly, has further squeezed his role. The article says Zubimendi has yet to start a Premier League match in the 2026/27 campaign and has played only 100 minutes across seven league appearances. His starts have come in cup competitions, while his league appearances have mostly been brief cameos. One example cited was a two-minute appearance in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Hull City on November 7. Despite the reduced minutes, Zubimendi remains highly regarded in Spain. His honours include the 2019/20 Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad and the 2024 European Championship with Spain. Atlético manager Diego Simeone and sporting director Mateu Alemany are said to view him as a suitable mid-season addition. Any move may depend on Arsenal’s valuation. The report says the club would seek a substantial fee, with the aim of recouping the €70 million spent to bring him to north London. Atlético’s reported interest could offer Zubimendi a route back to a more prominent role, but the article does not say that a transfer has been agreed.