Spanish media make an interesting Rodri claim after Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi scores vs Georgia

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Martin Zubimendi’s impressive start to life as an Arsenal player continued as the midfielder impressed during Spain’s win over Georgia.

The Spanish national team have qualified for next summer’s World Cup and continued their strong run of form with a 4-0 win away in Tbilisi.

The Arsenal midfielder was one of the players who managed to get himself on the scoresheet as he produced excellent close control to find the back of the net.

Mikel Arteta has called Zubimendi ‘exceptional’ since his arrival in North London, and the Spanish media’s latest comments highlight what a great signing he has been for the Gunners.

Spanish media impressed by Martin Zubimendi in Rodri’s absence

The Spanish media have been so impressed by Martin Zubimendi in the absence of Rodri, who is currently out injured.

One local outlet described him as ‘the anchor of Spain’; meanwhile, he was also hailed for ‘spectacularly’ covering the Man City midfielder.

Zubimendi, who impressed against Sunderland, netted his first goal for Spain with a superb touch to get in behind Georgia’s defence, and he then lifted his effort over the goalkeeper.

There was big praise from Mundo Deportivo, who wrote: “At 26, he has become a complete midfielder, capable of leading Arsenal from the pivot position and, in the absence of the injured Rodri. His performance was crowned with a goal.”

El Desmarque also sang his praises in the Man City man’s absence: “He continues to spectacularly cover for Rodri’s absence and increases his goalscoring tally after a striker’s finish against Mamardashvili following a great pass from Fabián. The metronome of this team.”

Meanwhile, Marca described him as a key part of the national team’s midfield: “The anchor of Spain. Zubimendi is playing at a spectacular level. Helping Pedro Porro tackle Kvaratskhelia is a demonstration of how it should be played in the middle. He also scored to make it 2-0.”

Mikel Merino was well rested during Spain’s 4-0 win

Mikel Merino was well rested during Spain’s 4-0 win, as he was subbed off just after the hour mark in Georgia.

Arsenal will be sick of the international break, having already lost Riccardo Calafiori and now Gabriel Magalhaes to injury.

Fortunately, both their Spanish players came through the game unscathed, and Merino even played just 63 minutes of football.

The midfielder could well be needed in the North London derby, given that Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres both remain doubtful for the clash.