Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has dismissed suggestions in Spain that he is the player Real Madrid need to strengthen their squad.
The 27-year-old joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad in July in a £60m deal, despite persistent speculation that then-Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso viewed him as the ideal successor to Luka Modric following the Croatian’s departure.
Asked about ongoing claims linking him with Madrid, Zubimendi played down the idea in an interview with Cadena Ser.
“I don’t think so. Real Madrid has more than enough players to do well, so no,” he said.
Zubimendi completed the full 90 minutes on Tuesday as Arsenal beat Chelsea to reach the Carabao Cup final and said the squad were aware of the challenge that lies ahead during the decisive months of the season.
“We have taken the first step but we are aware that there are three very important months ahead,” he said.
Arsenal currently sit six points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League and have qualified for the Champions League last 16 after becoming the only club to win all eight of their group-stage matches.
“This is about winning it,” Zubimendi added. “The standings are great but we will see who wins.”
The Spain international has settled quickly into English football, contributing five goals and three assists in 33 appearances across all competitions this season.
“When you feel important and you are playing, it is truly comforting,” he said.
“It’s true that I’ve adapted well to the league, but I’ve noticed that the matches are very demanding, everyone puts you under pressure and the level is very high.”
Zubimendi also spoke about Arsenal team-mate and fellow Spain international Mikel Merino, who is currently sidelined with a foot injury and faces a race against time to be fit for the World Cup.
Merino suffered a stress fracture during Arsenal’s 3-2 league defeat by Manchester United on January 25 and is not expected to return until the end of the season.
“I know first-hand that he will do his all to recover for the World Cup. I hope so,” Zubimendi said.
“It pains me to see him sidelined because I know how professional he is and how much he wants to help us on the pitch. I know he’s the one who’s hurting the most, but the damage his injury has done to the team is significant.”
