Martin Zubimendi was the difference maker for Arsenal during their Premier League win over West Ham United.
Zubimendi won over Arsenal fans with his performance, coming off the bench in the first half to replace Martin Odegaard.
Odegaard’s injury would’ve ordinarily thrown a spanner in the works for Mikel Arteta, but on came Zubimendi to drive Arsenal to another level.
The Spanish midfielder changed the shape of the midfield and was integral to both of Arsenal’s goals, earning high praise after the contest.
Spain’s media praise Martin Zubimendi after West Ham win but send international break warning
Zubimendi’s impact at Arsenal has become clear so early into his time in Arteta’s project.
For some, an adaptation period is needed when trading La Liga for the Premier League, but not for Zubimendi.
After the Gunners’ win over West Ham, Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo praised Zubimendi for fitting in so seamlessly following his summer transfer to Arsenal.
“Martin Zubimendi has fitted in like a glove at Arsenal. A starting lineup is inconceivable without the Spaniard,” wrote journalist Pablo Planas.
Planas sang Zubimendi’s praises when reviewing his performance against West Ham, but then turned attention to the upcoming international break.
Zubimendi had usurped Rodri over the September international break following the Manchester City star’s return after his long lay-off due to an ACL injury.
Now that Rodri is back, Luis de la Fuente has a decision to make, but Mundo Deportivo doesn’t think dropping Zubimendi is justifiable right now.
“It’s difficult to justify the potential substitution of the Don Sebastian native [Zubimendi] after he’s excelled match after match.”
Noting that having Rodri as a competitor isn’t easy, the Spanish outlet doubled down on the opinion that Zubimendi is simply at a different level right now.
“And yes, his competition is a Ballon d’Or winner like Rodri, but we’re talking about that level with Zubi, who seems to have been playing at the Emirates since he was born.”
De La Fuente has a difficult decision to make, a dilemma that most international managers would love to have.
What Rodri has said about Zubimendi competition
Having two of the best defensive midfielders in the world at his disposal is a blessing for De La Fuente ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Rodri already knows what Zubimendi offers to the Spanish national team, speaking highly of his now Premier League rival earlier this season.
“When I got injured, I told him it was his time to take over the team. I’m happy to see the team at the same level,” Rodri said.
It would be a shock to see Zubimendi lose his place to Rodri over the international break, particularly as he continues to prove his prowess in the Premier League.
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