Zubimendi Reveals the Three Teams Arsenal Fear Most in the Champions League
Martin Zubimendi has issued a clear warning to his Arsenal teammates: when it comes to the Champions League, Spanish clubs remain a serious threat that no one should underestimate.
The midfielder, who made the high-profile switch from Real Sociedad to Arsenal last summer in a £60 million deal, believes the Gunners can’t afford to overlook La Liga’s heavyweights despite their strong position in Europe’s premier competition.
Arsenal’s Impressive Season So Far
Arsenal are enjoying a fantastic campaign on multiple fronts. They’ve secured their spot in the Carabao Cup final, sit at the top of the Premier League table, have progressed to the fourth round of the FA Cup, and finished the Champions League league phase in style—winning every single game to top the standings and earn a direct spot in the knockout rounds.
They’re one of just five teams to achieve that automatic qualification, alongside fellow English sides Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester City. Newcastle United could join the party if they get past Qarabag in their play-off tie.
English clubs have been the dominant force early on, claiming five of the top eight places after the league phase. Yet recent history reminds everyone that Premier League teams haven’t featured in the last two Champions League finals, with Manchester City as the only English winner in the past four editions.
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Why Spanish Teams Still Loom Large
While Barcelona were the only Spanish side to automatically qualify for the knockouts, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are still alive through the play-offs. Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal, meanwhile, exited at the first hurdle.
But for Zubimendi, those early eliminations don’t tell the full story. Speaking on El Larguero, he shared his honest thoughts on the competition and the dangers ahead:
“This is about winning it. Qualifying is great, but we’ll see who wins it. It’s true that adapting to the league has been good, but I’ve noticed that the matches are very demanding, that everyone puts you under pressure, and that the level is very high.
“You should never count out Spanish teams. Barça reached the semifinals last year, Real Madrid is Real Madrid, and Atlético has more than enough players. I don’t know, the Champions League is different, and anything can happen.”
In other words, Zubimendi is highlighting Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid as the three Spanish sides Arsenal—and every other contender—must treat with real respect. Their pedigree, experience in big moments, and ability to turn things around make them perennial threats in the Champions League.
The Blow of Losing Mikel Merino
Arsenal boast a strong, deep squad capable of chasing trophies on all fronts, but they’ve suffered a major setback with the news that midfielder Mikel Merino will be sidelined for an extended period after requiring foot surgery.
Zubimendi spoke warmly about his teammate’s situation, showing the close bond within the group:
“He’s in pain. He’s a very professional person who takes care of himself and always thinks about what’s best for the club. I know he’s the one who’s most hurt, but the damage his injury has done to the club is significant.”
Merino’s absence is a big loss, especially in a season where Arsenal are pushing hard across every competition.
Looking Ahead in the Champions League
With the knockout stages approaching, Zubimendi’s message is clear: qualification is one thing, but lifting the trophy is the ultimate goal—and Spanish opponents could easily stand in the way.
His insight carries extra weight coming from a player who knows La Liga inside out and has already adapted impressively to the intensity of the Premier League and Champions League.
As Arsenal prepare for the next phase, Zubimendi’s warning serves as a timely reminder that in the Champions League, experience and quality can outweigh early form every time—especially when those famous white, blaugrana, or red-and-white stripes are on the other side.
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Zubimendi Reveals the Three Teams Arsenal Fear Most in the Champions League