It seems a bit unfair that a defensive midfielder as accomplished as Martin Zubimendi has only played in 19 international matches for Spain so far.
However, that is not a reflection of his ability, but rather one of the abundances in quality Spain continue to have in their midfield.
The likes of Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Pedri and Gavi have regularly been playing for Spain during the last few years, with Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, having already earned 57 caps for La Furia Roja.
However, as far as Spanish club football is concerned, Zubimendi has made his mark for Real Sociedad over the last seven years. Hence, it does not come as a surprise that Arsenal plan to sign him this summer.
The Gunners have seen the departure of Jorginho recently to Flamengo and would like to replace him with a quality player.
Zubimendi is one of the best holding midfielders going around and might come to the Emirates stadium ahead of the start of the upcoming season.
Martin Zubimendi: Real Sociedad and Spain’s Star
The 26-year-old Spaniard has already played in 236 matches for Real Sociedad. He has won the Copa Del Rey with them in 2020, alongside European Championships for Spain in 2024.
He also scored in the UEFA Nations League final this year which Spain lost to Portugal on a penalty shootout.
Zubimendi is a neat tackler and, like most of the holding midfielders Spain has produced, is good on the ball. He is a good passer and has the tendency to get into the opposition’s penalty box at times to score goals.
Arsenal already have a player in Declan Rice, who can pretty much do the same. Therefore, they will need some defensive assurance from Zubimendi, as Thomas Partey is also likely to leave Arsenal soon.
Arsenal also have another Spaniard, Mikel Merino, in the mix.
It can be assumed without much doubt that Zubimendi will be the No. 6 for the Gunners should he decide to sign for them.
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Real Madrid or Arsenal?
Spanish giants Real Madrid are also reportedly pursuing Zubimendi, as their new manager Xabi Alonso has made signing him one of his priorities.
Arsenal are reportedly going with an offer in excess of £50 million for the Spanish midfielder.
The Gunners are the favourites to get Zubimendi’s services despite Real Madrid being present in the scenario.
Real Madrid already have Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga, who can both play as defensive midfielders. Therefore, Zubimendi might be apprehensive of not getting much game time in case he signs for them.
This should tip the scales in favour of the Gunners.
Besides, Zubimendi will have the opportunity to play under his compatriot, Mikel Arteta, at Arsenal, too. Arteta will hope that signing the Spaniard will help his team win some silverware, which he has failed to do for the last six years.
The Gunners are in pursuit of Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres already, and signing Zubimendi will give them an added impetus to their plans for the upcoming season.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Passion2Press
Recording Date: 08.06.2025