Martin Zubimendi statistic shows Mikel Arteta exactly what he is missing in Arsenal’s midfield

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Arsenal were overpowered by Newcastle’s tenacity and physical approach during their Carabao Cup semi final defeat.

Arsenal defender William Saliba was given a torrid time by Alexander Isak whilst the physical battle in midfield was won by the Magpies with Declan Rice and Thomas Partey over run.

Chris Waddle criticised Arsenal’s defending against Newcastle and Mikel Arteta’s side just simply could not cope with the strength and power shown across the pitch by Eddie Howe’s side.

Martin Odegaard tried to take control of the game but was often denied any space to dictate the game, the tie made Arsenal’s midfield look inadequate for the first time in a long while.

READ MORE: Arsenal fans are all in agreement over one thing following Gabriel Martinelli’s injury nightmare

Martin Zubimendi has the most tackles and interceptions in La Liga this season

Arsenal are set to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in the summer and the Spanish midfielder has been showing why the Gunners are so keen to splash the cash on securing his services.

A recent statistic has highlighted Zubimendi’s qualities and the reason why Arteta believes he will be the perfect addition to Arsenal’s midfield.

Arsenal certainly could have done with Zubimendi’s defensive bite against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup but his form this season will certainly excite fans at the prospect of him gracing the Emirates Stadium next season.

The fact that Zubimendi rejected Liverpool last summer will only add to his popularity amongst Gunners supporters given the current tussle with Arne Slot’s Reds for the Premier League title.

Zubimendi and Rice could form a formidable Arsenal midfield partnership

With Partey’s contract up at the end of the season and Jorginho also set to leave the club, Zubimendi will come straight into Arsenal’s midfield alongside Rice.

The combination of Rice and Zubimendi is the perfect blend of defensive strength and composure in possession of the ball.

Rice has proven in recent weeks that he is learning to become more of a threat in attacking areas, he scored against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League and Micah Richards and Gary Lineker believe Rice is suited to the number eight role.

Arsenal may have to navigate through some tough times in the coming weeks amid an injury crisis but in the signing of Zubimendi, the future looks bright for Arteta’s team.