Arsenal star hailed as ‘second best in world’ by Spain boss

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Martin Zubimendi has been hailed as the second best midfielder in the world by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, with only Manchester City’s Rodri ranking ahead of the Arsenal summer signing.

Speaking to TVE ahead of Spain’s friendly against Serbia, De la Fuente praised both players as “the two best players in the world” in the number six role, highlighting how fortunate the European champions are to have such quality in their engine room.

Instant Emirates impact

Zubimendi has made a remarkable start to life in north London since his summer move from Real Sociedad. The midfielder has featured in all 31 Premier League matches so far this season, contributing five goals as Arsenal sit nine points clear at the top of the table.

The 25-year-old has also been instrumental in the Gunners’ Champions League campaign, appearing in eight European fixtures, while adding three League Cup appearances with one goal in that competition.

“After all, in that position, the number 6 role, we have the two best players in the world: Rodri and Martin [Zubimendi]. Of course they can play together,” De la Fuente told TVE.

The Spain boss emphasized the different qualities both players bring, noting Zubimendi’s evolution as an attacking threat while maintaining his positional discipline.

Tactical versatility praised

De la Fuente highlighted how Zubimendi has developed his game since joining Arsenal, particularly his ability to get into goalscoring positions while retaining the defensive qualities that made him such an attractive target for Mikel Arteta.

“Martin is getting into the box more now and scoring goals, but he also has the qualities of a positional player, with balance and outstanding tactical awareness,” the Spain manager explained.

The praise comes as both players prepare for international duty, with Spain already qualified for this summer’s World Cup. De la Fuente’s comments suggest he sees no issue deploying both midfielders in a double pivot system, giving the European champions significant tactical flexibility.

Zubimendi’s seamless adaptation to Premier League football has been one of the standout stories of Arsenal’s title charge this season. His ability to dictate tempo while contributing in the final third has added a new dimension to Arteta’s midfield, with the Gunners reaping the rewards of their summer investment in the former Real Sociedad captain.