Xabi Alonso is reportedly beginning to regret a key decision that could shape both his project and Arsenal’s future, after allowing Martin Zubimendi to complete a move to the Premier League.
What initially appeared to be a calculated concession has quickly turned into a source of frustration for the Spanish coach, as Zubimendi’s influence at Arsenal grows with every passing week.
When Arsenal pushed hard to sign Zubimendi, the deal was seen as a major statement of intent from Mikel Arteta. The midfielder had long been admired across Europe for his intelligence, positional discipline and ability to dictate tempo, traits that mirror many of the qualities Alonso himself displayed during his playing career. Alonso, fully aware of Zubimendi’s importance, believed he could restructure his midfield without the Spaniard and chose not to stand in the player’s way when Arsenal made their move.
At the time, Alonso publicly maintained a calm and respectful stance, stressing the importance of supporting players who wanted to take the next step in their careers. Privately, however, there was confidence that the system could absorb Zubimendi’s departure. New tactical solutions were explored, younger players were earmarked for bigger roles, and the assumption was that collective structure would outweigh the loss of one individual.
Fast forward to the present, and that confidence has been shaken. Arsenal have reaped immediate rewards from Zubimendi’s arrival, with the midfielder seamlessly adapting to the Premier League’s intensity. His ability to screen the defence, recycle possession under pressure and bring composure to Arsenal’s build-up has drawn widespread praise. More importantly, he has given Arteta exactly what he wanted: balance. With Zubimendi anchoring the midfield, Arsenal’s attacking players have enjoyed greater freedom, while the defensive line has looked more protected and organised.
From Alonso’s perspective, the contrast has been painful to watch. The absence of Zubimendi has been felt most in high-pressure matches, where control in midfield has proven elusive. Games that once would have been managed calmly have become more chaotic, forcing Alonso to tweak his setup more often than he would like. While the team remains competitive, there is a growing sense that something fundamental is missing.
Sources close to the situation suggest Alonso has privately admitted that letting Zubimendi go may have been a step too far, especially given how quickly Arsenal have benefited from the transfer. The irony is not lost on the former Real Madrid and Liverpool star: Zubimendi’s style is perfectly suited to the brand of controlled, intelligent football Alonso wants his teams to play. Seeing those qualities now flourishing in north London has only intensified the feeling of regret.
At Arsenal, Zubimendi is already being viewed as a long-term cornerstone. Supporters have embraced his calm authority, while teammates appear to trust him instinctively in difficult moments. His partnership with Arsenal’s defenders has improved their ability to play out from the back, and his positional awareness has helped reduce the exposure that often comes with an aggressive attacking approach.
For Alonso, the situation serves as a harsh reminder of how fine the margins are at the elite level. Allowing a player of Zubimendi’s calibre to leave was a decision rooted in principle and long-term planning, but football rarely waits for plans to mature. As Arsenal continue to benefit from their new midfield general, Alonso is left reflecting on what might have been, and whether a more forceful stance could have changed the trajectory of his own project.
Ultimately, Zubimendi’s move has strengthened Arsenal while leaving Alonso to confront an uncomfortable truth. Sometimes, supporting a player’s ambition comes at a higher cost than anticipated. As the season unfolds, the regret surrounding that decision may only grow louder, especially if Zubimendi plays a decisive role in Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware.