Basque backbone Merino and Zubimendi driving Arsenal’s Premier League title charge

Building an immediate narrative of aspiration and confidence, Arsenal’s Spanish pair Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi insist that Arsenal’s superb start is not a fluke, but the result of a deep-seated determination to end the club’s wait for major honours.

“Hopefully, this is the year, but what Martín says is also very important — that after so long, people haven't given up… If you're not here to win titles, I don't think you're in the right place,” said Merino.

Zubimendi describes the core spirit of the changing room as “resilience”, forged by past near misses.

“Instead of pressure, that’s become a motivation for everything that’s coming. And honestly, I see the team more eager than ever, the coach, who’s been here for many years, more eager than ever. The ones who have been here since day one are hungrier than ever. And the new players come in with that same hunger to contribute and to adapt to the group right away,” said Zubimendi.

To achieve their title dreams and secure victory in the pressure cooker of the derby, Arsenal know their foundation must be solid.

Merino believes the current collective effort is second to none, hinting they may possess the best backline in Europe.

“Probably. It's not just about the individual names in defence, but also the team and collective effort — I think it’s something we work on a lot,” Merino asserted.

“The defence is what wins you trophies, and you can see the results from the whole team — how people give their all to block a shot or intercept a pass.”

This drive comes directly from the coach, whom Zubimendi noted is far from “calm”.

“I think he wants to take charge of every detail in the club — whether it’s on the pitch, off the pitch, in the stands, in the stadium, what the team conveys. I think he’s very detail-oriented and, in that sense, I think it really shows.”

Zubimendi, who is already fully immersed in life at Arsenal thanks in part to his settled start, said his Spanish counterpart’s opinion helped solidify his decision to join the club, although Merino was careful not to apply pressure.

“I wouldn't say ‘agent’ because I didn’t want to interfere in his decision,” said Merino.

“It’s something very personal and very important,” he explained, before humourously recalling the welcoming process: “I took him shopping….”

Zubimendi, for his part, has adapted immediately.

“Yes, I've not been here long, but it doesn't feel that way because of how settled and comfortable I'm feeling and the friends I've made in such little time,” Zubimendi said of his transition.

Merino vouches for his contribution.

“He honestly brings a lot. They don't make signings here for no reason, and whenever someone comes in, it’s to add something to the team.”

The midfielder’s quick goals have already provided a crucial boost.

Recalling his strike against Nottingham Forest, Zubimendi said: “I wonder what they think at Real Sociedad because I had so many chances like that, but never scored from them, and the first one here goes in. I'm happy to score so quickly as that gives you a confidence boost.”

The Spanish duo’s connection on the pitch is a key element of Arsenal’s current momentum, which Zubimendi says they must extend as much as possible.

This intuitive partnership stems from their common roots in Spain’s Basque Country, which Merino credits with instilling their vital work ethic.

“Sometimes I say it’s the personality of the people there — very hard-working people, very humble, who don’t look for excuses and always demand more from themselves,” Merino said.

Zubimendi credits the trust between them.

“He gives me security; when I go to a team or to the national team and Merino is in midfield, it gives me the confidence that we’re going to be a cohesive unit both defensively and in attack. It gives me peace of mind, I think.”

And regarding his personal ambition, Zubimendi is focused on contributing fully to the team’s success in England.

“It would be to extract every last drop of my potential. I don't know how far it will take me, but feeling fulfilled, knowing I've given everything.”

* Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur is live on Showmax Premier League tomorrow at 6.30pm.