Martín Zubimendi refutes assertion that Real Madrid requires his services.
Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi has refuted claims in Spain suggesting he is a player that Real Madrid requires.
Zubimendi, 27, joined the North London club in a €70 million (£60m, $83m) transfer from Real Sociedad in July, despite speculation that former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso viewed him as the perfect option to succeed the departed Luka Modric.
When questioned about persistent rumors that he is the player Madrid needs, Zubimendi stated on Cadena Ser radio: “I don’t believe so. Real Madrid has more than enough players to perform well, so no.”
Zubimendi played the full 90 minutes on Tuesday as Arsenal triumphed over Chelsea to secure a place in the Carabao Cup final.
“We have taken the first step, but we recognize that three very crucial months lie ahead,” Zubimendi remarked.
Arsenal holds a six-point advantage over Manchester City at the summit of the Premier League and has advanced to the round of 16 in the Champions League after becoming the only team to win all eight matches in their group stage.
“This is about winning it,” Zubimendi noted. “The standings are impressive, but we will see who comes out on top.”
Zubimendi has adjusted well to the Premier League, contributing five goals and three assists in 33 appearances for the Gunners.
“When you feel valued and are actively participating, it is genuinely reassuring,” he commented.
“It is true that I have adapted well to the league, but I have noticed that the matches are quite demanding, with everyone applying pressure and the level being exceptionally high.”
In addition, Zubimendi mentioned that teammate and fellow Spain international Mikel Merino is working to recover from a foot injury in time for the World Cup.
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Merino suffered a stress bone fracture during Arsenal’s 3-2 league defeat against Manchester United on January 25 and is expected to return only at the end of the season.
“I know firsthand that he will do everything possible [to recover for the World Cup], and I hope so,” he said.
“It pains me to see him out because I understand how professional he is and how much he desires to assist us on the field. I know he is the one who is suffering the most, but the impact of his injury on the team is considerable.”
