Martin Zubimendi’s move from Real Sociedad to Arsenal this summer is nearly final, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that all necessary paperwork has been done – but what number will the Spanish midfielder wear in north London upon arrival?
Despite contradicting claims that Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso is also negotiating a contract for the engine room enforcer, Zubimendi, a 19-cap Spain international, will be the Premier League club’s first official signing of the summer.
Now that all of the legalities for Zubimendi have been completed, it’s only a matter of time before Declan Rice’s midfield partner is revealed to the Emirates Stadium fans, and the number he will wear has already been anticipated when the move becomes official.
Martin Zubimendi’s Expected Shirt Number at Arsenal
Spanish midfielder is getting hands on a familiar digit
Zubimendi, who rose through Sociedad’s academy ranks in 2016, has been on Arsenal’s radar since the January transfer window, and the capital club has now moved the fastest. Arsenal will pay above his release clause in order to distribute the payments over time and alleviate PSR concerns.
He has worn the No.4 shirt at the Real Arena since the start of the 2023/24 season, although that position is currently occupied by defender Ben White in London. He has also worn No.3, which became available after Kieran Tierney left, although he will not follow in the Scot’s footsteps.
Instead, according to Arsenal insider Charles Watts, Zubimendi will most likely wear the No.36 shirt number, which may not appear noteworthy on the surface, but holds a particular place in the heart of Arsenal’s first summer signing. But why?
While the defensive midfielder made his first team debut in Spain, 36 was the first number he wore on the back of his shirt. when previously stated, when his influence expanded, he increased his numbers to 3 and 4 for two seasons each.
The aforementioned Watts, who reported on his YouTube channel (which you can watch below), noted that he hasn’t been able to corroborate the claim – but, citing sources he completely trusts, he puts his money on the high nineties.
It will be an uncommon sight, given that just ten players have worn the No.36 shirt in Arsenal’s long and illustrious history. This comprises a variety of players: Ismael Bennacer, Emiliano Martinez, and Thomas Cruise are just a handful.
Jehad Muntasser was the first Arsenal player to wear the number during the 1997/98 season. Other players who have worn No.36 include Mark Randall (07/08), Johan Djourou (05/06), John Halls (01/02), Jermaine Pennant (00/01), and Brian McGovern (99/00).
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