Why Zubimendi Could Be the Key to Arsenal's Premier League Success

Arsenal's potential signing of Martin Zubimendi: How the Spanish midfielder could be the key to the Gunners' Premier League title success.

Arsenal's pursuit of Zubimendi is driven by his ability to elevate the entire team. Once confirmed, the Emirates faithful will quickly grasp why Arteta has long coveted him and why the club worked tirelessly to secure his signing. This signing could be the crucial one that finally tips the balance in Arsenal's favor, potentially securing their first Premier League title in over two decades.

Martin Zubimendi's impressive performance for Spain in the Nations League final went largely unnoticed amidst the spotlight on Cristiano Ronaldo. However, his standout display could have significant implications for potential future transfers, particularly to Arsenal, where Mikel Arteta might see him as a valuable addition.

Zubimendi's performance was marked by his exceptional passing accuracy, completing 101 of 107 passes (94.4%). In contrast, Pedri achieved perfect accuracy with 52 passes, but Zubimendi's higher volume of passes showcased his influence on the game.

Zubimendi's All-Around Ability

Zubimendi's positional awareness is exceptional, allowing him to cover a lot of ground and make a significant impact on the game. His role is more about controlling the tempo and providing support rather than scoring goals, evident from his relatively low goal tally for both club and country.

Zubimendi's innate positional awareness enables him to excel in various roles, seamlessly switching between deep-lying playmaker and defensive midfielder to protect the backline as needed.

Across the last three La Liga seasons, Martín Zubimendi has won possession in the midfield third at least 36 more times than any other player (329). 💪 pic.twitter.com/xPxS0vjFiI

— WhoScored (@WhoScored) June 10, 2025

Zubimendi's ball control is exceptional, reflected in his impressive passing stats. For Spain, he achieved a 93.2% passing accuracy over the past year, while in LaLiga, he maintained an elite-level 84.4% accuracy, completing 1,479 passes out of 1,752 attempts for Real Sociedad.

Arsenal's interest in Zubimendi was expected due to his fitting skill set. Despite rejecting offers in previous seasons, it seems he's now open to a move, potentially paving the way for a transfer to the Gunners.

Existing Sociedad Link

Arsenal's existing connection to Real Sociedad, having signed Mikel Merino, and Mikel Arteta's ties to the club's hometown of San Sebastian, could make a move appealing to Zubimendi.

Reports suggesting Real Madrid had outbid Arsenal for Zubimendi appear to be unfounded, and the deal may still be on track for the Gunners.

Major Spanish media outlets suggest Real Madrid has downplayed reports of their interest in Zubimendi, potentially giving Arsenal a clear path to sign the player they've long coveted.

Zubimendi's ability to receive the ball under pressure and create space to open up passing lanes will greatly benefit Arsenal, particularly in transitioning from defense to attack with more verticality.

Potential Role in a 4-3-3 Formation

In a 4-3-3 setup, Zubimendi would likely occupy the central, deeper role as a number six, with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard on either side. Even in a more defensive position, he'd efficiently distribute the ball to advance the team up the pitch.

Unlocking Opposition Defenses

Zubimendi's metronome-like playmaking, similar to great Barcelona midfielders, could help unlock tight opposition defenses. This role could also free up Declan Rice, allowing him to operate more dynamically.

With Zubimendi handling the deeper role, Rice can operate further forward, where he's most effective. This would also give Rice opportunities to score more goals, which would likely appeal to both him and Mikel Arteta.

If Arteta signs a striker, such as Benjamin Sesko, Arsenal might switch to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Zubimendi and Rice forming a double pivot, supporting a creative No. 10 and two wide players.

Zubimendi's versatility would allow him to excel in either role, having consistently demonstrated his ability to drive his team forward while protecting his defense.

Elevating Teammates

Zubimendi's exceptional quality elevates the performance of those around him, making him a valuable addition to any team, even in a significant step up to the Premier League.

Arsenal's pursuit of Zubimendi is driven by his ability to elevate the entire team. Once confirmed, the Emirates faithful will quickly grasp why Arteta has long coveted him and why the club worked tirelessly to secure his signing.

This signing could be the crucial one that finally tips the balance in Arsenal's favor, potentially securing their first Premier League title in over two decades.