Zubimendi’s Impact at Arsenal: A Rising Star in Midfield

omidbasir- Zubimendi first captured the attention of English audiences in 2024. He quickly transitioned from a budding talent to a pivotal figure, notably replacing Rodri in Spain’s triumphant Euro final against England. Despite Rodri claiming that year’s Ballon d’Or, his standing was arguably diminished by how seamlessly Zubimendi filled his role, allowing the European champions to maintain their momentum.

“He’s a great player,” Rodri remarked about his compatriot last year. “He possesses the discipline and mentality that could elevate him to the elite level, if he isn’t already there. I recently told him it was his time to shine, and that I was handing over the keys to the team.”

Following Spain’s Euro 2024 win, Zubimendi attracted significant interest from Liverpool, who believed they could persuade him to leave his boyhood club, Real Sociedad. He was viewed as the ideal midfielder for new head coach Arne Slot’s plans. However, despite initial openness to a transfer, Zubimendi ultimately opted to stay, with reports suggesting that Arteta’s persuasive efforts played a vital role in his decision.

Liverpool’s 2024-25 season was a successful one as they edged out Arsenal for the Premier League title by ten points, supported by a midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai. In contrast, Arsenal has appeared more balanced than ever, bolstered by Zubimendi’s addition.

Arsenal’s midfield setup has immensely benefited from Zubimendi teaming up with Declan Rice, a £105 million ($144 million) acquisition. Yet, integrating into Arteta’s established system posed a challenge for any newcomer.

“Playing alongside him has been remarkably easy,” Rice stated of Zubimendi this season, acknowledging that he had never encountered such a capable partnership at the club level before. “From our first pre-season session, I sensed we would develop a strong connection. I genuinely appreciate him as both a person and a player. Our mutual understanding has evolved impressively. He embodies the qualities expected of a Spanish No.6, excelling in the initial phases of play and transitioning forward efficiently.”

The duo exhibits a complementary dynamic, skillfully blending modern football concepts with traditional roles. Both players excel in ball progression and show resilience against pressing. While Zubimendi brings finesse and vision to the game, Rice contributes strength and the ability to reclaim possession, making them formidable scoring threats when the forward line falters.

During his seven seasons at Real Sociedad, Zubimendi’s highest goal tally was four in the 2023-24 season. However, he has already netted six goals in just 34 appearances for Arsenal this season. His latest goal, a long-range strike in a 3-0 victory over Sunderland, showcased his evolving offensive contributions, which have proven crucial in tight matches.

Arteta praised Zubimendi’s unexpected goal-scoring prowess following the game against Sunderland, noting his ability to influence play in the attacking third. This adaptability is a hallmark of top midfielders, who often surprise with their capacity to elevate their game.

While many anticipated that Arsenal’s missing piece would be a striker, Zubimendi has emerged as a key player amidst the struggles of Viktor Gyokeres, who has yet to meet expectations with only 13 goals this season.

Despite the pressure on Gyokeres and other forwards, Zubimendi’s performance has been a revelation. He has taken on significant responsibility without using the common excuse of needing time to adapt to a new league.

Currently, Arsenal’s top performers are closely matched, with Gyokeres leading the scoring chart. Yet, unless one player embarks on an extraordinary scoring spree, it remains uncertain who will be recognized as the standout performer for the 2025-26 season.

Initially, Gabriel Magalhaes seemed poised for this recognition, but an injury hampered his effectiveness. Meanwhile, only Rice has played more games than Zubimendi this season, as both have been vital to the team’s success.

Player of the Year awards typically favor those on championship-winning teams. Recent trends suggest that Zubimendi has a strong case for the award, especially if Arsenal continues to lead the title race. Should they maintain their position, the debate surrounding the Player of the Year will undoubtedly intensify.