Arsenal's new midfield star defied illness to make winning PL start
Martin Zubimendi overcame a bout of illness to make his Arsenal debut in Sunday’s Premier League victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The midfielder, who joined from Real Sociedad during the summer, had been struggling with a stomach bug in the build-up to the match, which forced him to miss two training sessions and put his availability in doubt.
Despite those concerns, Zubimendi pushed to be involved and was eventually passed fit by the club’s medical staff.
Mikel Arteta rewarded that determination by naming him in the starting lineup, where he partnered Declan Rice in midfield.
The Spaniard went on to play the full 90 minutes, showing composure on the ball in what was a fiercely contested game.
Arsenal claimed a 1-0 win courtesy of Riccardo Calafiori’s first-half header, which came after Altay Bayindir misjudged a corner delivered by Rice.
The result provided Arsenal with an important early-season statement, although their overall performance lacked fluidity for long stretches.
United pressed aggressively and created periods of discomfort for the visitors, but Zubimendi’s presence helped stabilise the centre of the pitch.
Arteta and his staff were impressed by the commitment shown by the 26-year-old, who had been widely linked with a Premier League move for several windows before Arsenal secured his signing in July.
Supporters also welcomed the resilience and maturity he demonstrated, particularly given the circumstances of his preparation.
Making a first Premier League appearance at Old Trafford is a significant challenge in itself, and doing so after illness highlighted the determination Arsenal valued when they pursued him.
Zubimendi’s arrival has been seen as a long-term reinforcement of Arsenal’s midfield structure.
Arteta regards him as a player with the tactical intelligence and technical quality to adapt quickly to English football, and his debut was an encouraging first step.
While the match itself was scrappy, the Spaniard showed glimpses of his range of passing and ability to control tempo under pressure.
For Arsenal, the victory added momentum at the start of a demanding campaign following heavy summer investment.
For Zubimendi, it marked a personal milestone after a difficult week, and the club now hopes he has fully recovered to contribute consistently in the coming fixtures.
His willingness to push through adversity has already offered an early indication of the character Arsenal have brought into their squad.
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