Mikel Arteta sends clear message to £60million Chelsea transfer target
Nov 4, 2026, 1:18 PM By James Goldman 31 Reads
Mikel Arteta insists Martin Zubimendi remains a key part of Arsenal's plans despite limited game time. The midfielder has been linked with a January move to Chelsea, where Xabi Alonso admires him.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta speaks before tonight’s game against Slavia Prague (Credits: Mike Egerton/Press Association)
Mikel Arteta has assured one of his out of favour stars that he remains a key part of his plans.
The Gunners have made a superb start to their Premier League title defence, winning eight of their nine games so far and put down a significant marker last weekend with first win at Anfield in 14 years.
Arteta’s side have made an equally impressive start to their European campaign and extended their unbeaten run following a 2-2 draw at the home of German champions Bayern Munich a fortnight ago.
Arsenal’s excellence has come at a cost, however, with several high-profile players struggling for significant game time.
Martin Zubimendi represents a prime example with the Spain international, a near ever-present last term, struggling to oust the likes of Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Mikel Merino and summer recruit Bruno Guimaraes.
Indeed, the 27-year-old’s only starts thus far came in the Carabao Cup a competition Arsenal exited last week in shock circumstances at the hands of League Two outfit Fleetwood.
The increased competition for places saw the World Cup winner, who cost Arsenal £60million 18 months ago, linked with a move to Chelsea over the summer.
Xabi Alonso is a huge admirer of his compatriot and with Chelsea still lacking option in central midfield the Blues could make a renewed effort to sign Zubimendi in January.
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi (Picture: Getty)
Arteta, thought, insists opportunities will be available to the former Real Sociedad star but warned him he must seize those chances as and when they present themselves.
He said: ‘He’s a very important player for us. He’s been a bit unlucky with what happened with the ankle, with the nose afterwards.