Arteta explains Zubimendi sub after Ben White’s injury against West Ham

White limped off in the 28th minute with a knee problem, prompting the Spaniard to introduce Zubimendi and move Declan Rice to right-back. 

However, the reshuffle disrupted the Gunners’ balance forcing the Arteta into another change in the 67th minute when Kai Havertz replaced Zubimendi. 

"It is never easy to do that to a player, especially someone with Martin’s quality," Arteta told the media.

"But the game was panning out in a manner where we had to change it. We lost some of our early momentum and the balance wasn't right with (Rice) out of the middle. As a manager, you have to be cold and do what the game requires to win."