Arsenal is set to make a major move in the midfield department with the anticipated £51 million (€60m release clause) transfer of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. We at The Football Yeller are here to discuss What Will Martin Zubimendi Bring To Arsenal? The 26-year-old Spanish international has finalised personal terms with the Gunners, signalling a tactical enhancement to Mikel Arteta’s lineup as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.
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The addition of Martin Zubimendi is expected to bolster Arsenal’s midfield, providing greater stability and depth, especially with the possible exits of key players like Thomas Partey, Jorginho and Declan Rice.
A Gem from Real Sociedad’s Academy
Hailing from San Sebastián, Spain, Zubimendi climbed the ranks of Real Sociedad’s youth setup, marking his senior debut with Real Sociedad C back in 2016. He made his way up to the first team, racking up more than 170 appearances in La Liga and playing a key role in the club’s Copa del Rey triumph during the 2019–20 season.
Style of Play: The Modern Defensive Midfielder
Martin Zubimendi frequently draws comparisons to Sergio Busquets, thanks to his calm demeanour, sharp tactical awareness, and skill in managing the pace of play from a deeper midfield role. He stands out with a vibrant and assertive style, shining in advancing the ball and breaking up the opponent’s game.
His strengths are all about keeping the team organised, distributing the ball swiftly, and understanding the flow of the game, which makes him an essential player in both defence and transitions.
International Experience
Martin Zubimendi has showcased his talent on the international scene, proudly wearing the Spain jersey at multiple age levels, from U17 to U23. He stepped onto the senior stage in 2021 and played a key role in the squad that clinched the UEFA European Championship in 2024, making contributions in several matches during the tournament.
What Will Martin Zubimendi Bring To Arsenal?
Martin Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal is more than just a standout acquisition; it’s a strategic decision that aligns seamlessly with Mikel Arteta’s developing approach to the game. In recent seasons, Arteta has concentrated on crafting a squad that excels in possession control, employs smart pressing tactics, and transitions swiftly from defence to offence.
The addition of Zubimendi gives the Gunners a skilled and tactically aware midfielder who excels in those fundamental aspects. Zubimendi is truly the embodiment of a “pivot” in every sense of the word. He operates from a deep midfield position, serving as the crucial link between defence and attack, reminiscent of the role that Declan Rice plays today.
Nonetheless, Zubimendi excels at understanding the flow of the match, cutting off passes, and launching counterattacks with composed and accurate distribution. He doesn’t merely recycle possession—he advances it.
His ability to withstand pressure, make swift decisions, and maintain composure could be the key element that enables Odegaard and Rice to advance further up the field and express themselves more creatively.
Arteta has faced challenges in securing a lasting solution for Thomas Partey, who has had his share of injuries, as well as Jorginho, whose contract status brings a level of unpredictability and might be leaving Arsenal is season.
Zubimendi not only offers solid support in the defensive midfield role but also ensures long-term stability for the position. He possesses the ability to protect the defence through smart positioning and intercept passing routes, yet, unlike many conventional defensive midfielders, he showcases the finesse and technical skill to control the pace of a game—much like Rodri at Manchester City, a player Arteta has collaborated with extensively.
Furthermore, his grasp of organised, possession-oriented play under Imanol Alguacil at Real Sociedad will facilitate a seamless transition to Arsenal. Both teams focus on constructing plays from the defence and maintaining control in the midfield, indicating that Zubimendi will likely adjust quickly without needing a lengthy transition phase.
His discipline enables full-backs such as Myles Lewis-Skelly, Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber or Ben White to confidently move into midfield without compromising the defence, secure in the knowledge that Zubimendi will adeptly cover the space left behind.
In the realm of European contests, where strategic precision and midfield dominance reign supreme, Zubimendi’s influence could prove to be a pivotal factor. Arsenal faced challenges in asserting their midfield control during several intense matches last and this season, particularly in the UEFA Champions League.
Zubimendi’s composed presence, combined with his ability to disrupt the flow of the opposing team, positions him as a perfect fit for these high-pressure matches. Beyond tactics, Zubimendi showcases a mindset shaped in La Liga—characterized by consistency, professionalism, and a sharp football intellect.
He may not steal the spotlight, but his influence is unmistakable. In a squad brimming with creativity and attacking players, Zubimendi might just be the steadying influence Arsenal has sought for years, solidifying the midfield and enabling his teammates to shine.
In essence, Martin Zubimendi represents more than just a transfer—he embodies a strategic signing that reflects Arsenal’s desire to not only compete but to assert dominance in matches through intelligence, control, and structure.
Tactical Integration: Zubimendi’s Role in Arsenal’s Midfield
Zubimendi is anticipated to fit into Arsenal’s midfield as a deep-lying pivot in Arteta’s 4-3-3 setup, enabling Declan Rice to adopt a more dynamic role and Odegaard to advance further up the pitch.
His intelligence and positioning might allow Arsenal to transition into a 4-2-3-1 or even a 3-2-5 during possession, providing tactical versatility. His composed passing and sharp defensive instincts will be crucial for keeping the team’s shape and controlling the pace during intense games.
Fan Perspectives and Expectations
Amidst the chatter among fans, there are those who worry about the club prioritising midfield upgrades instead of bolstering the attack. However, a significant number see Zubimendi as a key player who could enhance the team’s midfield balance and control.
His steady displays at Real Sociedad and international experience indicate that he can handle the Premier League’s demands and play a crucial role in Arsenal’s goals.
Conclusion
Bringing in Martín Zubimendi is a strategic move to bolster Arsenal’s midfield and enhance the overall depth of the squad. His blend of skilful technique, sharp tactical insight, and seasoned experience makes him a vital player in Arteta’s strategy for the upcoming season.
With Arsenal striving to reach the pinnacle of success both at home and across Europe, the addition of Zubimendi could be a game-changer in realising those ambitions.
For more stories, like, What Will Martin Zubimendi Bring To Arsenal? What The Spanish Midfield Maestro Will Bring To Arteta’s Gunners 2025. Click Here.
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