Martin Zubimendi has not looked like himself in recent weeks at Arsenal.
The Spaniard was outstanding in the first half of the season and quickly established himself as one of the best midfielders in Europe. His partnership with Declan Rice was absolutely incredible in the middle of the park.
However, Zubimendi’s performances have dipped significantly in recent months, and that has become a concern at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Martin Keown believes he knows exactly why that has happened.
Should Mikel Arteta drop Martin Zubimendi?
Martin Keown thinks Martin Zubimendi’s workload is the reason behind his dip in form
Martin Zubimendi has been one of Arsenal’s most-used players this season, and the numbers show just how heavy his workload has been.
The Spain international has already played 3841 minutes in all competitions this season – only Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai has played more this season.
Zubimendi is constantly on the ball and heavily relied upon in every phase of play. He is not just defending, but also dictating tempo, progressing possession and linking midfield to attack.
That takes a lot out of a player, especially one who is in his first-ever season in the Premier League following his move from Real Sociedad last summer.
Arsenal legend Keown believes that fatigue is the key reason behind Zubimendi’s dip in form.
He said on TNT Sports: “Do you know what? Overall, I think he has been magnificent. I think the workload has probably caught him out.
“If he’s in my dressing room, I’d be reminding him how good he is, how special he is.
“‘Look, move that ball quickly. Get back to the basics, keep believing in yourself, we certainly believe in you. Go and play, be free in your mind.’”
How much is Martin Zubimendi worth to Arsenal now?
It's certainly a lot more than the £51m we paid!
Martin Zubimendi looked like his usual self against Sporting CP
There were encouraging signs in Arsenal’s recent Champions League clash against Sporting CP, where Zubimendi delivered one of his best performances in weeks.
The midfielder controlled the game well and looked much sharper in possession.
Zubimendi ended up winning the Man of the Match award and was named in the Team of the Week, which says everything about his influence on the night. It was a reminder of the level he can consistently reach.
That performance should give him a huge confidence boost heading into the final stretch of the season, starting Sunday at the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal face Manchester City in a clash that could decide the Premier League title race.
If Zubimendi produces another performance like he did against Sporting, Arsenal’s chances of getting a result will increase significantly.
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