Last updated on September 15, 2025
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It’s rare for a new signing to start this hot.
Image credit: Arsenal
When Arsenal signed Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad this summer, it raised a few eyebrows.
Some fans knew about his reputation in La Liga, others had only seen clips.
However, almost everyone was asking the same question: can he really handle the Premier League?
After his performance against Nottingham Forest, the answer feels pretty clear — yes, and then some.
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Making His Mark at the Emirates
It didn’t take long for Zubimendi to stamp his authority on the game against Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium.
In the 32nd minute, when a loose ball dropped outside the box, he pounced.
One clean strike later and the ball was in the back of the net.
The Emirates roared, and suddenly it felt like this was his stage.
After halftime, with Arsenal already in control, he wasn’t done.
Late in the second half, he popped up again — this time ghosting into the box to meet Leandro Trossard’s cross with a perfectly timed header.
Two goals, from a midfielder brought in more for his control and composure than his finishing.
That’s how you win over a new crowd.
More Than Just the Goals
What made Zubimendi’s display so impressive wasn’t just the brace.
It was the calmness he brought to midfield.
Given that captain Martin Ødegaard was forced off injured, this could have been the kind of match where Arsenal lost their rhythm.
Instead, Zubimendi kept things ticking.
Stunning goal pic.twitter.com/WOqhzTPR2K
— Abel (@Homealoneonly) September 13, 2025
He read the game smartly, snuffed out Forest’s attacks, and recycled possession with the kind of quiet authority Arsenal have been crying out for.
Watching him, you got the sense that nothing was going to fluster him — not a Forest press, not the pace of the Premier League, not even the pressure of expectation.
Why Arsenal Needed Him
This is exactly why Arsenal fought so hard to sign him.
Last season, there were moments when the midfield felt stretched — when they needed someone to sit deep, control tempo, and let others play with freedom.
Zubimendi does that naturally. He gives Declan Rice more license to surge forward.
He frees creative players like Ødegaard and Eberechi Eze to take risks.
And when Arsenal need someone to just settle things down, he’s there to take two touches, find the simple pass, and reset.
Today was a perfect example: while the goals will grab headlines, it was the balance he brought that told the real story.
A Signing for Now and the Future
At 26, Zubimendi is already experienced, but he also looks like someone who can grow with this team.
He spent years at Real Sociedad being the quiet leader, the metronome in midfield.
Now, he’s in a side pushing for titles.
And Arsenal fans will love him for more than just his football. He’s humble, hardworking, and focused.
No drama, no fuss — just a player who does his job brilliantly and, as Forest found out, can pop up with a goal or two when it matters.
What Fans are Saying
“He has his first English Premier League goal in some style, hitting a volley on the edge of the box past Matz Sels.” – Mr7
“Zubimendi’s debut goal was spectacular!
“This match against Nottingham Forest marks Arsenal’s first goalless draw since October 2023, ending a 56-game streak, adding context to the significance of Zubimendi’s strike.
“His rising status, boosted by Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign where he played a key role.” – OtterFlyer
Final Word
Against Nottingham Forest, Zubimendi didn’t just show up — he showed why Arsenal made him a priority.
Two goals, total control of midfield, and the kind of performance that makes you wonder how he was ever doubted in the first place.
