Arsenal fans are preparing for the arrival of Martin Zubimendi, with the midfielder set to bolster the Gunners’ ranks this summer.
With Andrea Berta set to seal the signing any day now, there is growing excitement surrounding what the Spaniard could bring to the team.
Many are expecting Martin Zubimendi to play a deeper midfield role as part of a 4-3-3, where his ability to circulate possession will be key in building from the back.
While that may be what his skillset allows for, Arsenal fans may be surprised as to where he could actually end up playing.
Martin Zubimendi could change role at Arsenal similar to Declan Rice
Martin Zubimendi’s goal for Spain in his final match of the summer international break proved a lot of Arsenal fans wrong.
Many had questioned the 26-year-old and his ability to cause many problems in the final third, given it was seen as one of his weaker points.
However, by creating a move and then finishing it off with a poacher’s instinct, Zubimendi appeared to put to bed any questions about whether he is capable of scoring if an opportunity arises.
That, in itself, could hint at a different sort of role for the Spanish international when he makes his way to the Emirates Stadium.
Given Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal, there is a need to have a consistent threat all over the pitch, much of which comes from the midfield.
Declan Rice is one of those who provided plenty of that, popping up with plenty of big goals and assists over the past season.
While he is now a chief scorer and creator in the side, he faced similar questions and criticisms to what Zubimendi is now.
Viewed as a defensive player at West Ham, Rice wasn’t known for his attacking ability, but he has since improved that side of his game.
With Zubimendi’s arrival at Arsenal around the corner, there could be a change towards more of a double-pivot style midfield, with either Zubimendi or Rice pushing or dropping at any moment.
That could prove every fan wrong about the incoming signing, as much as his new teammate already has.
Declan Rice’s goalscoring numbers before and after Arsenal
It’s fair to say that in the two years that Rice has been at Arsenal, his scoring and assisting numbers have taken an upturn.
While some may argue that it can come from playing for a better side, it can also point to a clear change in approach and some good coaching.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Ham | 245 | 15 | 13 |
| Arsenal | 103 | 16 | 20 |
The transformation of Rice is one that not many would’ve predicted upon joining, but he has since proven many wrong.
It could well hint at a similar change for Zubimendi coming up, with Arteta liking a team that is capable of scoring from anywhere.
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