Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi Makes Debut Start Against Newcastle

In a highly anticipated friendly match held on July 26, 2025, at the Singapore National Stadium, Arsenal's new signing, Martin Zubimendi, made his first start for the team against Newcastle United. The Spanish midfielder, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad during the summer transfer window, had previously appeared as a substitute in Arsenal's win over AC Milan earlier that week. Zubimendi's inclusion in the starting lineup marks a significant moment in his career, as he joins former teammate Mikel Merino in the midfield.

Zubimendi, 24, has been praised for his tactical awareness and ball distribution, traits that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hopes will bolster the team's midfield depth as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season. According to Arteta, Zubimendi's adaptability and experience in La Liga make him an ideal fit for the Premier League's competitive environment. "Martin has a unique ability to read the game and connect play, which is vital for our style of football," Arteta stated in a press conference prior to the match.

The friendly against Newcastle comes after a string of pre-season matches that have allowed the Gunners to experiment with their squad. Alongside Zubimendi, Myles Lewis-Skelly was introduced into the starting eleven, taking the place of Oleksandr Zinchenko at left back. The decision to rotate players highlights Arteta's strategy of building team chemistry and fitness ahead of the new season.

Newcastle United, who arrived in Singapore after a disappointing 4-0 defeat to Celtic, made six changes to their lineup, including the introduction of Jamaal Lascelles and new signing Anthony Elanga. Manager Eddie Howe expressed optimism about the team's performance despite recent setbacks, emphasizing the importance of these friendly matches in preparing for the Premier League.

The match, available for live streaming on Arsenal's official channels, is expected to provide crucial insights into the team's readiness for the competitive season ahead. The starting line-up for Arsenal included David Raya in goal, supported by a back four of Ben White, William Saliba, Riccardo Calafiori, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. The midfield featured Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Nwaneri, with Trossard, Saka, and Havertz leading the attack.

As the Gunners look to build momentum in their pre-season preparations, Zubimendi’s debut start signals not only his integration into the team but also Arsenal's ambitions for the upcoming campaign. With the Premier League season set to commence in just a few weeks, every match provides an opportunity for players to establish their roles within the squad, and Zubimendi's performance against Newcastle will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.

In conclusion, Martin Zubimendi’s first start for Arsenal represents a pivotal moment as the club gears up for the new season. With strong performances in pre-season friendlies, the Gunners aim to demonstrate their readiness to compete at the highest level of English football.