Arteta tells Zubimendi he's 'unbelievable' amid Chelsea transfer interest
Mikel Arteta has moved to reassure Martin Zubimendi over his place in Arsenal's plans after the midfielder found himself squeezed out of the starting lineup and linked with a January move to Chelsea.
Zubimendi, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for Β£60million 18 months ago, was a near ever present last season. This term, however, he has struggled to displace Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Mikel Merino or summer signing Bruno Guimaraes, with his only starts coming in a Carabao Cup campaign that ended in shock fashion against League Two side Fleetwood.
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The lack of game time fuelled speculation over the summer linking the Spain international with a move to Chelsea, with Xabi Alonso reportedly a long time admirer of his compatriot. According to Metro, Chelsea could make a renewed effort to sign Zubimendi in January given their own lack of options in central midfield.
Arteta's message to Zubimendi
Speaking before Arsenal's game against Slavia Prague, Arteta was clear that Zubimendi remains central to his thinking despite the lack of minutes.
βHe's a very important player for us. He's been a bit unlucky with what happened with the ankle, with the nose afterwards. He had some minutes as well and we have options in midfield. Like anybody else, everybody has to be ready. Everybody is going to have the chances to play. Then it's about performing and helping the team to win football matches. But his energy, his application and his will to help are unquestionable, and he's an unbelievable player for us,β Arteta said.
A squad problem born of success
Arsenal have made a strong start to their Premier League title defence, winning eight of their opening nine matches, including a first win at Anfield in 14 years last weekend. The Gunners have also remained unbeaten in the Champions League, drawing 2-2 away at Bayern Munich a fortnight ago.
That form has come with a cost for several high profile squad members, with Zubimendi the clearest example of a player whose standing has been affected by increased competition for places in midfield. Arteta now has genuine depth across that area of the pitch, a stark contrast to previous seasons when a single injury could disrupt his options.
Whether that depth is enough to keep Zubimendi at the club beyond January remains to be seen, particularly if Chelsea do follow through on their interest. For now, Arteta's message is that chances will come, and it will be down to the player to take them when they arrive.
