Martin Zubimendi vs Thomas Partey: A Salary Comparison at Arsenal

Martin Zubimendi vs Thomas Partey: A Salary Comparison at Arsenal

  • This article compares the weekly wage of new Arsenal signing Martin Zubimendi to ex-Gunner Thomas Partey's salary
  • The Black Stars midfielder was allowed to leave the Emirates Stadium following the expiration of his contract on June 30
  • Spanish defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi is a direct replacement for the ex-Atletico Madrid man

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Arsenal’s midfield received a major shake-up this summer with the arrival of Spanish international Martin Zubimendi, who was officially unveiled on July 6, 2025.

The ex-Real Sociedad player is replacing Thomas Partey, who left the club at the end of June after five years of service.

Martin Zubimendi weekly wages, Arsenal news, Thomas Partey Arsenal salary, Premier League news
Pictured: New Arsenal signing Martin Zubimendi (left), ex-Arsenal player Thomas Partey (right). Image credit: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC, Vince Mignott/MB Media
Source: Getty Images

Despite being a key target for Arsenal this summer, Zubimendi is set to earn considerably less than the player he replaces as the club’s first-choice defensive midfielder.

Martin Zubimendi signs for Arsenal

According to the Evening Standard, Zubimendi arrives in North London after Arsenal triggered his £55 million release clause, bringing an end to long-standing speculation linking him to Mikel Arteta’s side.

Arsenal signs Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal transfer news, Premier League transfer news
Arsenal unveil new signing Martin Zubimendi at Emirates Stadium on July 02, 2025 in London, England. Image credit: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC
Source: Getty Images

The Spaniard fits neatly into the club’s recruitment strategy, technically gifted, tactically intelligent, and with prime years still ahead.

But beyond the footballing profile, Zubimendi’s wage structure marks a notable departure from the hefty salary that had become synonymous with his predecessor.

What is Martin Zubimendi's weekly wage at Arsenal?

According to Yahoo Sports, Zubimendi will earn approximately £75,000 per week under his new long-term contract at Arsenal, which runs until 2030.

This figure represents a substantial increase from the £48,000 per week he was reportedly earning at Real Sociedad, but it pales in comparison to the £200,000 weekly wage that Thomas Partey reportedly commanded during his time in North London.

Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 from Atlético Madrid for £45 million and quickly became one of the club’s top earners. His arrival was meant to solidify the midfield with a blend of athleticism and control.

While he delivered a number of solid performances, especially during Arsenal’s 2024/25 campaign, his time at the club was disrupted by frequent injuries and inconsistent form.

By the time his contract expired in June 2025, the club appeared ready to move in a new direction, both tactically and financially.

Why is Zubimendi earning less than Partey?

According to various reports, the gap in salaries, over £125,000 per week, is indicative of more than just market rates as it reflects a changing philosophy at Arsenal.

Under Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta the club has moved toward a more sustainable wage model, ensuring that new signings align not only with the team’s footballing vision but also with its financial architecture.

Zubimendi’s modest wage by Premier League standards allows Arsenal to manage their payroll more efficiently while still strengthening the squad.

Arsenal fans react to Zubimendi's signing

Lots of Gunners have taken to social media to react to Arsenal's capture of the Real Sociedad midfield gem.

"Finally! A proper replacement for Xhaka with real composure. Zubimendi reads the game so well — this is a massive statement of intent. He’s perfect for Arteta’s system. Can’t wait to see him dictate play at the Emirates!"
"Zubimendi is such an intelligent signing. Not flashy, but exactly what we need — calm under pressure, great positioning, and keeps things ticking. With him behind Rice and Ødegaard, our midfield looks elite. Edu and Arteta are cooking again!"
"Been watching La Liga — this guy is a baller. Doesn’t get rattled, always available for the ball. Think of a Spanish Busquets-lite with more mobility. Huge upgrade in control. What a window this is turning out to be!"
"People won’t realize how good Zubimendi is until he starts bossing games quietly. He’s not a highlight-reel player, but watch how we dominate possession now. He’s the glue we’ve missed since Cazorla left. Great bit of business by the club."

"Wasn’t convinced at first, but the more I watch him, the more I see why Arteta wanted him. It’s like we finally have someone who knows exactly when to speed up or slow down play. Midfield maestro incoming!"
"Zubimendi signing shows how far we’ve come. No more panic buys — just smart, strategic moves. He’s technically sound, positionally sharp, and works like crazy off the ball. This team’s spine is starting to look scary. Trust in the process!"

In an exclusive interview with Gariba Raubil of YEN.com.gh, renowned Ghanaian football administrator and avid Arsenal supporter Charles Kwadwo Ntim extended his best wishes to Zubimendi.

''I think he is a great signing, and I can only wihs him well. I cannot wait to see him play though.''

Why Arsenal did not extend Partey's contract

YEN.com.gh earlier reported on the four main reasons Arsenal did not extend the contract of Ghana international Thomas Partey.

The ex-Atletico Madrid and UD Almeria player, who is facing charges over a series of major allegations by three women, is currently clubless.

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Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Gariba Raubil avatar

Gariba Raubil (Sports Editor) Gariba Raubil is a skilled content writer and journalist with over 14 years of experience in sports journalism. He is a CAF and FIFA-accredited reporter and has been a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) since 2020. He has covered several international tournaments including two All Africa Games in 2015 and 2023. He also reported on the 2017 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and the 2018 Women’s AFCON. Email: gariba.raubil@yen.com.gh