Martín Zubimendi: Arsenal’s New Midfield Maestro in 2025

*By Applygist.com | Published: July 8, 2025*

Martín Zubimendi, the Spanish midfield sensation, has taken the Premier League by storm since his £55m transfer to Arsenal from Real Sociedad in July 2025. Known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and versatility, Zubimendi is quickly becoming a fan favorite at the Emirates. In this post, we dive into who Martín Zubimendi is, his playing style, and why his signing is a game-changer for Arsenal. Let’s explore how this 26-year-old is shaping the Gunners’ midfield and what fans can expect in the 2025/26 season.

Who Is Martín Zubimendi?

Martín Zubimendi Ibáñez, born on February 2, 1999, in San Sebastián, Spain, is a professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for Arsenal and the Spain national team. A product of Real Sociedad’s youth academy, Zubimendi made his La Liga debut in 2019 and quickly established himself as one of Spain’s brightest talents. His £55m move to Arsenal in July 2025 marked a significant step in his career, as he joined the Premier League giants under their new sporting director.

Zubimendi’s journey began at Real Sociedad, where he made 236 appearances, scoring two goals and providing two assists in La Liga during the 2024/25 season. His ability to anchor the midfield, break up opposition attacks, and distribute the ball with precision earned him comparisons to legends like Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso.

Why Did Arsenal Sign Martín Zubimendi?

Arsenal’s pursuit of Zubimendi was no surprise. After losing key midfielders, the Gunners needed a reliable defensive midfielder to bolster their squad. Zubimendi’s signing came after intense competition from clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, with Arsenal ultimately securing his services by paying slightly above his €60m release clause in installments.

So, what makes Zubimendi so special? Here are the key reasons Arsenal invested in him:

• Tactical Versatility: Zubimendi excels as a lone pivot in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing Arsenal to push players like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard into more advanced roles.
• Press Resistance: His ability to receive the ball under pressure and make quick, accurate passes helps Arsenal build from the back, a hallmark of Mikel Arteta’s system.
• Defensive Solidity: Zubimendi’s game-reading ability, interceptions, and aerial prowess make him a formidable shield for the backline. He ranked highly for successful take-ons among midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues last season.
• Progressive Passing: With a high number of line-breaking passes in La Liga last season, Zubimendi’s ability to transition play from defense to attack is elite.

Zubimendi’s Playing Style: The Next Xabi Alonso?

Zubimendi’s style draws frequent comparisons to Xabi Alonso, under whom he played at Real Sociedad. Like Alonso, Zubimendi combines technical finesse with tactical awareness. He’s not a high-volume passer like some deep-lying playmakers, but his quick decision-making and ability to play forward passes make him a perfect fit for Arsenal’s dynamic system.

Key attributes of Zubimendi’s game include:
– Composure Under Pressure: He thrives in tight spaces, often dropping between center-backs to offer passing options during high-pressing situations.
– Ball Retention: His high successful take-on percentage highlights his ability to carry the ball and evade challenges.
– Defensive Instincts: Zubimendi’s quick tackling and interception skills make him a reliable anchor, stopping opposition counter-attacks effectively.

Fans have already dubbed him “the Reds’ next Xabi Alonso,” and his seamless integration into Arsenal’s squad suggests he could live up to the hype.

How Zubimendi Fits Into Arsenal’s 2025/26 Plans

Arsenal’s 2024/25 season was marred by injuries, with key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus sidelined. Finishing second in the Premier League for another year prompted Arteta to strengthen the squad, and Zubimendi’s arrival addresses a critical need in midfield.

As a lone pivot, Zubimendi allows Arsenal to maintain their fluid, possession-based style while adding defensive stability. His presence frees up Declan Rice to play as a box-to-box midfielder, where he can showcase his attacking flair, and enables Ødegaard to focus on creating chances in the final third. This tactical flexibility could be the key to Arsenal challenging for the Premier League title in 2025/26.

Zubimendi’s Impact on the Spain National Team

Zubimendi’s rise isn’t limited to club football. Since his senior debut for Spain in 2021, he has earned 19 caps and scored twice. His performances in international competitions have solidified his reputation as a dependable midfielder on the global stage. With Spain’s midfield evolving, Zubimendi is poised to become a key figure for years to come.

What’s Next for Martín Zubimendi?

As Arsenal prepare for the 2025/26 season, all eyes will be on Zubimendi to see how he adapts to the Premier League’s intensity. His ability to perform against top teams like Manchester City and Liverpool will be crucial. Fans are also eager to see how he gels with teammates like Rice, Ødegaard, and new signings under Arteta’s evolving project.

Conclusion: A Bright Future at Arsenal

Martín Zubimendi’s transfer to Arsenal marks a new chapter for both the player and the club. His blend of defensive grit, technical ability, and tactical intelligence makes him the perfect fit for Arteta’s vision. As Arsenal aim to end their Premier League title drought, Zubimendi could be the missing piece in their midfield puzzle.

What do you think about Zubimendi’s move to Arsenal? Will he become a Premier League legend? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest football updates!

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Martín Zubimendi: Arsenal’s New Midfield Maestro in 2025