Former Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi reacts to winning at San Mames with Arsenal | OneFootball

On Tuesday, Athletic Club were defeated by Arsenal in their opening league phase match of this season’s Champions League. Victory was sweet for the Premier League side, and this was especially the case for midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

As a former Real Sociedad player, Zubimendi would have been desperate to win at San Mames, and he played an important role in the victory – which was only his second ever victory at the ground, the other coming back in his first visit in December 2020, as four consecutive defeats followed in the years after.

And speaking post-match to Cadena SER, Zubimendi recognised his dismal San Mames record as a La Real player.

“I had already warned (my teammates) in advance that it was not going to be easy, I’m not going to lie to you. It’s a special ground where it has been very difficult for me to win, so I’m happy to do it. I don’t think over-motivation is good for us. Thinking so much about it being a special match doesn’t suit us.”

Image via Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

Zubimendi sends message to La Real supporters

Zubimendi also took the opportunity to send a message to La Real and its supporters on his return to the Basque country.

“I send them a lot of encouragement. The start has not being easy, but they are a more than good enough team to do well.”

It certainly has been a difficult start to the new season for La Real, who are winless after their opening four matches (two draws, two defeats). New head coach Sergio Francisco will be desperate to get off the mark, especially as El Derbi Vasco is not too far away – Athletic are pencilled in to make the trip to the Reale Arena on the first weekend in November.