Spanish Media Laud Martin Zubimendi

Martin Zubimendi’s seamless transition to life at Arsenal has not only impressed Premier League fans but also drawn glowing praise from Spanish media following his standout performance for Spain in their 3-0 win over Bulgaria. The midfielder, signed from Real Sociedad in a much-anticipated summer move, is already proving to be one of Mikel Arteta’s most astute acquisitions.

🇪🇸 Zubimendi Shines on International Duty

Named in Spain’s starting XI for their clash in Sofia, Zubimendi delivered a commanding display from the pivot position, earning an 8/10 rating from both SPORT and El Desmarque. His assist to Mikel Oyarzabal for the opening goal showcased his vision and technical finesse, particularly with his left foot.

“A midfielder who combines everything and always performs well,” wrote SPORT. “He held the midfield and created a lot of play.”

El Desmarque echoed the sentiment, praising his confidence and composure in possession:

“He allowed Spain to open the scoring with a great through ball… always very confident in his passing.”

Mundo Deportivo went a step further, suggesting Zubimendi may even challenge Ballon d’Or winner Rodri for a starting spot, calling him “the real leader” of Spain’s midfield on the night.

⚪ Real Madrid’s Missed Opportunity

While Arsenal fans celebrate Zubimendi’s impact, one Spanish journalist expressed regret over his move to North London. Marca’s Juan Ignacio Garcia-Ochoa lamented Real Madrid’s failure to secure the midfielder, branding his transfer to Arsenal as “painful.”

“Spain danced to Zubimendi’s rhythm in Sofia, but it was painful to see him arrive at the Las Rozas training camp from London,” Garcia-Ochoa wrote. “A tremendous player who would have been a godsend for Real Madrid vanished from La Liga to play for Arsenal.”

Real Madrid were reportedly interested in hijacking the deal, with Xabi Alonso advocating for the move. However, delays between Carlo Ancelotti and Alonso allowed Arsenal to swoop in, leaving Madrid to watch Zubimendi flourish elsewhere.

🔴 Arsenal’s Midfield Coup

Zubimendi’s arrival complements a summer of bold moves by Arsenal, including the signings of Viktor Gyökeres and Eberechi Eze. Arteta now has a midfield general capable of dictating tempo, breaking lines, and shielding the defence—a player who, according to Garcia-Ochoa, is “doing what seemed impossible” by making Rodri’s absence go unnoticed.

As Arsenal chase silverware on multiple fronts, Zubimendi’s influence is growing by the week. For Spain, he’s already a linchpin. For Arsenal, he might just be the missing piece in their title puzzle. For Real Madrid? A painful reminder of what might have been.