Martín Zubimendi Denies January Exit Plans Amid Atlético Madrid Interest

Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi has logged only 100 minutes in seven Premier League appearances this season but intends to stay in London until at least June.

Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi has denied reports that he is seeking a January transfer to Atlético Madrid. The 27-year-old Spanish international has seen his role reduced significantly this term, recording just 100 minutes across seven Premier League appearances. This follows a 2023-24 campaign where he played in all 38 league matches, averaging 79 minutes per game, to help the Gunners secure the title.

Speaking to Marca while on international duty, the 2026 World Cup winner stated he has not been in contact with other clubs and remains focused on Arsenal’s current title defense. The North London club currently leads the Premier League standings by five points over Brighton. Zubimendi, whose contract runs until June 2030, attributed his decreased playing time to physical fatigue following a heavy workload last season and increased competition within the squad.

Manager Mikel Arteta informed Zubimendi at the start of the season that the arrival of midfielder Bruno Guimarães would create internal competition for starting roles. Despite the shift in his status, Zubimendi expressed his happiness in London and his desire to remain with the team through the end of the current campaign. While he acknowledged the possibility of seeking psychological support to manage this career phase, he confirmed he has not yet taken that step.