William Saliba has just compared Martin Zubimendi to a Spanish legend following Arsenal’s Premier League title win this season.
Zubimendi started the season so well for the Gunners and looked to be one of the best summer signings from Andrea Berta.
🤔 Who starts the Champions League final in midfield: Myles Lewis-Skelly or Martin Zubimendi?
However, towards the end of the 2025/26 campaign, the Spaniard’s form has tailed off, and Myles Lewis-Skelly has taken his place in the midfield.
But despite recent criticism of the 26-year-old, Saliba has come up with a new nickname for him, and it’s certainly very interesting.
William Saliba compares Martin Zubimendi to Xavi Hernandez
William Saliba has just compared Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi to the legendary FC Barcelona star Xavi Hernandez.
Xavi is one of the greatest midfielders of all time; therefore, it is quite a compliment from Saliba towards his Gunners teammate.
Following Zubimendi’s Premier League title post on Instagram, Saliba could be seen in the comments saying: “Xavi”.
Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber were also in his replies, hailing the midfielder’s impact on the title win this season.
Initially, Zubimendi really helped to unlock Rice’s best form, but that has changed over recent months, with Lewis-Skelly taking his spot in the team.
Ultimately, many will remember Zubimendi’s debut season at the Emirates Stadium very fondly given how good he was towards the start.
Mikel Arteta faces Martin Zubimendi decision ahead of the Champions League final
Mikel Arteta is now facing a huge Zubimendi decision ahead of the Champions League final on May 30.
The Spanish manager must now decide whether or not to bring him back into the team following Lewis-Skelly’s upturn in form.
The Hale End star has come into the team and rejuvenated this Arsenal side, but it will be interesting to see whether the teenager is given the nod in Budapest.
Zubimendi offers Arsenal experience in the big moments, but Lewis-Skelly’s energy could be key against PSG.
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