Martin Zubimendi was playing like he’d been in our team for years on Saturday.

Our summer signing looked comfortable in possession and hungry to win the ball back during our 3-0 win over Athletic Club in the Emirates Cup final.

After he provided the cross for Viktor Gyokeres’ first Arsenal goal, we asked our Spanish midfielder how the new signings have been able to settle in so quickly.

“It was very easy – the team made it very easy for me,” he said. “I think the rest of the team have integrated very well, I think the people on and off the pitch are very friendly. 

“[Declan and Martin Odegaard] are top players, the best in their position. It’s time to learn, adapt and enjoy it above all.

“It was an important game because we came from two defeats. It’s true that they were friendlies, but this club doesn’t understand defeats in any context, so it was an important game to win and start the pre-season with a good feeling.”

Pre-season has seen us face a variety of game states, with some matches having us protect a lead while others tasked us with coming from behind. In the long run, Martin feels getting more practice in such situations can only be beneficial.

“Yes, the truth is that this team has to adapt to all contexts, whether it’s losing or winning, with the aim of winning above all,” he said. “Let’s hope we can get through these types of games and do great things.”

Asked about the support he’s felt all around the world and at home, Martin added: “I noticed it during the Asia tour – In the end, it’s a team that reaches the whole world. When I got here, these two games were incredible. Even though we didn’t win the other day, the atmosphere was incredible, it’s even more so today.

“It’s a good end to pre-season, but the best is yet to come. In the end, the league is the league. We like to compete; we like to win. I’m very happy that it’s starting now.”