From Zubimendi, Arsenal's Attack Transformation Begins

It is common knowledge that Arsenal's biggest problem in recent seasons lies in their attacking line. They lack a world-class center forward. Amid the need for a goal-scoring figure, the first player to join Arsenal is actually a defensive midfielder.

The player is Spanish national team midfielder Martin Zubimendi. According to The Athletic, he was in London on Saturday (21/6/2025) WIB to complete a transfer from Real Sociedad Arsenal. The transfer value is around 60 million euros (Rp 1.13 trillion).

The arrival of Zubimendi is not surprising. The player has been on Arsenal's radar since January. However, he is indeed planned to be included in the squad this summer to replace two veteran midfielders whose contracts have expired, namely Jorginho and Thomas Partey.

The question is, why is Manager Mikel Arteta interested in bringing in Zubimendi and overhauling the midfield? Arteta is willing to part ways with Jorginho and Partey, who alternated as the team's pivot throughout last season. Jorginho has already departed to the Brazilian club Flamengo, while Partey is set to follow soon.

First, due to rejuvenation. Arsenal aims to refresh their midfield. Jorginho (33) and Partey (32) have surpassed their prime age and are likely to continue declining in terms of performance. "The Gunners" need a new midfielder who is in their prime age and performance.

Who else but Zubimendi, who is only 26 years old? He is the most sought-after defensive midfielder in the past year. While Rodri is touted as the best in that position, Zubimendi ranks next. "Martin is the second-best player in the world (after Rodri)," said the Head Coach of the Spanish National Team, Luis de la Fuente.

Liverpool's interest in bringing Zubimendi during the last summer was sufficient to reinforce Fuente's statement. Liverpool's Head Coach Arne Slot stated that it is difficult to find players who can enhance the team's quality at present. However, this is not the case with Zubimendi, who is believed to have an immediate positive impact.

Liverpool ultimately failed to secure the signing of Zubimendi. The player decided to remain for another year at Sociedad. Nevertheless, as envisioned by Slot, it can be seen how the Liverpool squad will be even stronger. Moreover, "The Reds" were able to dominate the English League last season even without the addition of a midfielder.

For Arsenal, rejuvenation in the defensive midfielder position will be accompanied by an adaptation of the playing system. The strongest reason for bringing in Zubimendi is his superior abilities that are not possessed by Partey or Jorginho. He will open a new dimension to the Gunners' attack.

Zubimendi allows Arsenal to play with a single pivot, without the need for full-backs to play inverted or midfielders Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice to drop back to pick up the ball. Unlike Partey and Jorginho who need extra help in midfield.

Zubimendi's playing style is often compared to that of legendary Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets. Both are tasked with maintaining balance in the midfield as a bridge for the attack in the "number 6" position. They both possess excellent technical skills, the ability to control the tempo, and strong defensive capabilities.

Zubimendi's greatest strength is seen when building attacks. He can calmly distribute the ball to break the opponent's pressure. According to Opta, Zubimendi recorded 238 passes that broke the opponent's line in La Liga last season. That number is second only to three Real Madrid midfielders.

Zubimendi has everything needed to play as a sole pivot. With that, one of Arsenal's attacking problems could be resolved. Last season, the progress of the Gunners' attack was too slow because Odegaard and Rice often dropped back. They could not simply wait in the final third.

The "X" factor of Zubimendi was evident during the UEFA Nations League final between Spain and Portugal in early June 2025. He did not passively hold his position in the midfield during ball possession. The 1.81-meter tall player also advanced several times when opportunities arose, through dribbling or off-the-ball movement.

Zubimendi did not hesitate to enter the penalty box upon seeing an open space. Thanks to that initiative, he was able to contribute the opening goal against Portugal. Arsenal needs more movement from the midfield to create unexpected attacks.

"Martin is a player every coach wants. He can make the players around him look better. He always offers solutions. Before the ball falls to his feet, he already knows the next step. His organizational skills are very good," said Xabi Alonso, who coached Zubimendi in Sociedad's second team, as quoted by The Guardian.

As a result, the arrival of Zubimendi does not hinder Arsenal's plans to improve their attacking line. The transfer will help the Gunners reach the next level. Acquiring Zubimendi and a world-class center forward are two crucial actions to be taken.

Despite Zubimendi's great talent, there is no guarantee that the midfielder will adapt easily to the Premier League. The game in England relies heavily on physicality and a fast tempo. Nevertheless, Zubimendi can feel somewhat reassured as he will reunite with former teammates from Sociedad, namely Odegaard and Mikel Merino. (AP/REUTERS)