Zubimendi: “I’m glad Busquets and Xavi are speaking about me”
Martín Zubimendi embodies the spirit of San Sebastian with a quiet, grounded approach to life. Away from the football spotlight, he moves at a slower pace, savoring the simple pleasures that fill a day. He isn’t drawn to spectacle or fanfare; instead, he finds contentment in the basics and the city that raised him, a place where nature is never far away and everyday moments carry meaning.
After training sessions, he often escapes to the nearby hills for a peaceful walk, a time to decompress and reconnect with the surroundings that shaped his early years. His dog is part of that routine, a companion that brings steady joy and routine to his afternoons. He jokes about his pet situation, saying he loves having one dog so much that he enjoys planning activities with it, though he isn’t eager to expand the household beyond that. The bond is sincere and uncomplicated, much like his outlook on life.
In his own words, he grew up near the mountains of San Sebastian and still seeks quiet moments with a view to match. When possible, he strolls with his dog, letting the quiet spaces refresh him. The presence of a loyal companion is a simple pleasure that never gets old for him.
Rowing, tennis and football
Even in the off-season, Zubimendi remains closely connected with teammates and friends who share a home base in the Basque city. He notes that he keeps up with them whenever the schedules allow, maintaining a sense of community where he grew up. Being in San Sebastian makes this easier; friends and familiar spaces are never far away, and he takes full advantage of those connections whenever he can.
Later in the summer, it’s common to see him on Gros beach, a reminder that the city’s beach culture and football culture blend together. If a friendly ball comes his way, he can’t resist a quick touch or a playful game. He smiles at the thought of joining in, enjoying the spontaneous moments that remind him why he loves the sport.
There are moments when the demands of football press for full attention, but even then he finds pockets of time for other interests. He mentions his affection for paddle tennis as a current favorite among friends, a trend that has captured his social circle. Yet, vacation time brings a different pace, and the sport of choice shifts with the season.
On the road as part of Spain’s national setup, Zubimendi still carries a sense of home with him. The rhythm of concentration and travel is balanced by the easy, honest pleasures he values most. In quiet moments, he reflects on how his daily life blends training, downtime, and the camaraderie of teammates who share his roots.
Zubimendi is part of a generation of footballers who enjoy watching matches live on television to study the game in depth. He tracks opponents with care, yet he also knows when to switch off. He explains that he watches more selectively now, choosing to disconnect at times to recharge. Still, he keeps a close eye on leagues around the world, particularly the Spanish and English competitions, to stay sharp and informed.
Chess remains another passion, a strategic pastime that fits a midfielder who is always organizing and guiding a unit on the pitch. The mental exercise complements his on-field responsibilities, offering a different kind of challenge in spare moments when the schedule allows.
In all, the picture that emerges is of a young man who values balance. He trains with intensity and focus, but he also protects room for quiet reflection, family, friends, and the simple pleasures that keep him grounded. The combination of a mountain home and a city life feeds a personality that thrives on authenticity, reliability, and a steady love for the game.