The Spanish midfielder has dismissed Real Madrid talk and addressed Arsenal concerns after clinching Carabao Cup final spot
Martín Zubimendi has firmly played down speculation linking him with Real Madrid, insisting the Spanish giants do not need him.
The midfielder opened up about Real Madrid’s reported interest after Arsenal booked their place in the Carabao Cup final with a 1–0 victory over Chelsea, sealed by a stoppage-time goal from Kai Havertz.
With his name frequently mentioned as a potential solution to balance the midfield at Real Madrid, Zubimendi was asked directly whether he believes the Bernabéu side need him.
“I don’t think so, Real Madrid have more than enough players to do well, so no, no way, no way…” he told Cadena SER’s El Larguero.
Zubimendi’s comments come at a time when debate continues in Spain about Madrid’s long-term midfield structure, but the player made clear that he sees sufficient quality already available within the squad.
🔴 Mikel Merino’s father has revealed the true extent of the Arsenal midfielder’s injury.
🗣️ Miguel Merino explained that the injury is far from straightforward as it is “something more internal”. https://t.co/YfxYySAEaw #AFC #Arsenal #WorldCup2026
— BBSportNews (@thebbsportnews) February 3, 2026
Zubimendi on Merino’s injury and Arsenal’s European reality
The Spain international also addressed the injury suffered by his Arsenal teammate Mikel Merino, an issue that has raised concerns both at club level and for Spain ahead of next summer’s World Cup. Zubimendi did not hide the emotional and sporting impact of the setback.
“He’s in pain, he’s a very professional person, who takes care of himself and always thinks about what’s best for the club. I know he’s the one who’s hurting the most, but his injury has done a lot of damage to the club,“ Zubimendi said.
”Look, he seems to be fine, but when everyone gets home… I understand that it’s harder than it looks. I know he’s going to do everything he can to make it [with the national team], and if he doesn’t, it’ll be a shame. Let’s see what happens.”
Turning his attention to Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, Zubimendi struck a cautious tone despite the club finishing top of their group. He stressed that qualification alone means little once the knockout phase begins.
“It’s all about winning it. Qualifying is great, but let’s see who wins it. It’s true that the adaptation to the league has been good, but I’ve noticed that the games are very demanding, that everyone pushes you hard and that the level is very high,” he explained.
Zubimendi also warned against underestimating Spanish opposition in Europe, pointing to recent history and pedigree.
“You can never rule out Spanish teams, Barcelona reached the semi-finals last year, Real Madrid are Real Madrid and Atlético [Madrid] have plenty of players. I don’t know, the Champions League is different and anything can happen,” he concluded.
