Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino’s careers have been closely linked from the time they first formed part of the impressive Real Sociedad midfield, more than six years ago. The two spent five years together at the Basque club, winning the Copa del Rey in 2019/20, and helping the team finish in the top six of La Liga every year they played together.

They finished fourth in 2023, to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in nine years. What’s more, they both made their debuts with the Spain national team while with Sociedad, and celebrated winning the Nations League together in 2023, and the European Championships the following season. Now they are reunited in north London, and last month they...