Martin Zubimendi impressed during Spain’s 3-1 win over Peru, and the Arsenal midfielder appears to be regaining his confidence.
Towards the end of the season with the Gunners, Zubimendi lost his spot in the team to Myles Lewis-Skelly as his performance levels dipped.
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The Spaniard started the season with so much promise; however, in recent months, the 27-year-old has been unable to maintain those levels.
But ahead of the World Cup, the Arsenal star has produced a positive cameo off the bench, and the Spanish media have given him a solid assessment.
Martin Zubimendi gains confidence vs Peru
Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi looks to be regaining his confidence following his display in Spain’s 3-1 win over Peru.
The Spanish national team are the favourite to win this summer’s World Cup, and Zubimendi could play his part under Luis de la Fuente.
Zubimendi is set to remain behind Rodri in the pecking order, but the Spanish media think he will be a very solid alternative to the Man City star.
The 27-year-old was given 29 minutes off the bench in Mexico and was ‘bravely demanding the ball’, according to the local media.
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Zubimendi struggled to be the player for Mikel Arteta’s team who demands the ball from deep and looks to drive forward.
A mistake against Manchester City, where he gifted Bryan Mbuemo a goal, seems to have dented his confidence, so it is great to read the reviews in the Spanish press.
- Mundo Deportivo were impressed by his cameo and wrote: “Alternative (to Rodri). He manages to get heavily involved and bravely demands the ball.”
Zubimendi managed 23 touches, completed 21 passes and 11 carries during his 29-minute cameo ahead of the World Cup.
Mikel Merino makes his return for Spain
Elsewhere, Mikel Merino also made his return for the Spanish national team, and it was great to see such a key player return.
Merino netted six times during World Cup qualifying for Spain, and he too was subbed on after 61 minutes, replacing Pedri in midfield.
- The media were delighted to see Merino return to action, writing : “After many months sidelined, these minutes are key for the attacking midfielder.”
David Raya also featured for Spain, coming off the bench at half-time, but he was unable to keep a clean sheet and allowed Peru a goal back.
Despite being one of the world’s best goalkeepers, he faces strong competition from Joan Garcia for the starting spot in between the sticks for Spain.
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