Not Gyokeres, Arsenal captain names the best new signing

It’s not Viktor Gyokeres, the high-profile signing attracting much attention, but Martin Odegaard has chosen Martin Zubimendi as Arsenal’s best newcomer.

While many believe Viktor Gyokeres will be Arsenal’s standout signing this summer, captain Martin Odegaard has picked another name: Martin Zubimendi. According to the Norwegian midfielder, the newcomer from Real Sociedad is the player who can bring “a new dimension” to Arsenal’s style of play.

Arsenal began the 2025/26 Premier League season with a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s goal. This match also marked Zubimendi’s Premier League debut. Despite a somewhat tough start under Manchester United’s pressure, the 25-year-old grew more confident as the game progressed, demonstrating his ability to evade pressing and control the match’s tempo.

On the podcast Men In Blazers, Odegaard expressed his excitement: “He performed very well during the pre-season. I faced Zubimendi when playing in Spain, so I know his qualities well. He’s a top-class player, capable of delivering long passes, breaking defensive lines, and extremely intelligent in reading the game and managing the tempo. He will definitely bring a fresh style to our midfield.”

Zubimendi joined Arsenal after several successful years at Real Sociedad and has also made his mark with the Spanish national team. The transfer fee Arsenal paid is seen as a long-term investment, as coach Mikel Arteta aims to strengthen midfield depth to continue the title challenge.

Arteta highly values the potential partnership between Zubimendi and Declan Rice. If they find mutual understanding, this duo promises to become a “steel shield” as well as an effective launching point for Arsenal’s attacks.

In the second round, the “Gunners” will face the challenge of Leeds United. It is likely Zubimendi will get another chance to prove his worth. If he maintains his form and adapts quickly, the Spanish midfielder could become a key factor in helping Arsenal end three consecutive seasons finishing second in the Premier League.