FOOTBALL
Posted on February 13, 2026 8:45 pm | Updated on February 13, 2026 6:30 pm
Martin Zubimendi has quietly become the heartbeat of Arsenal team this season of Premier League. At 27, the Spanish midfielder joined from Real Sociedad in July 2025 for about £51 million. While stars like Erling Haaland or Mohamed Salah grab headlines with goals, Zubimendi’s all-around play makes a strong case for him as the top player of both Arsenal and Premier League. He controls the game, breaks up attacks, and starts the move that lead to wins. Arsenal sits near the top of the table, and much credit goes to him.
From Spain to North London
Martin Zubimendi grew up in Real Sociedad’s youth system. He played over 170 games there, becoming a key player in La Liga. Last summer, after winning Euro 2024 with Spain, he turned down Liverpool and Real Madrid to join Arsenal. Mikel Arteta had chased him for years, even talking him out of other moves. The deal was sealed in March 2025, with Arsenal paying his release clause in installments.
He signed a five-year contract and wears number 36. The fans and experts say he fits Arsenal like a glove, reminding them of past greats. His calm style and smart decisions echo legends like Sergio Busquets or Rodri.
Impressive Stats This Season
In the 2025-2026 Premier League, Martin Zubimendi has played 25 matches, scoring 5 goals and adding 1 assist. That is solid for a defensive midfielder. But his real impact shows in other numbers: he leads Arsenal in interceptions (31), successful passes in the opposition half (782), and ranks second in tackles (44) and possession won (97).
He has over 2,300 minutes on the pitch, more than any other Arsenal outfielder. His expected goals (xG) is 2.2, but he scored 5, showing that he even finishes well. Against Sunderland, he scored a great goal and helped in a 3-0 win. These stats prove he is not just defending—he is creating too.
📸 🇪🇸 Martin Zubimendi Vs Sunderland:
-1 Goal⚽️
-52 passes completed 💫
-92% pass accuracy
– 64 Touches
– 2 interceptions.👏
RATING: 9.2🤯 pic.twitter.com/EIRCFElNXl
— AE (@ArtetaEra) February 7, 2026
Key Strengths on the Field
What makes Zubimendi stand out? His brain. Teammates say “the way his brain works is ridiculous.” He reads the game perfectly, occupying space and helping others. In build-up play, he’s the best at turning with the ball and passing forward. Arteta calls him intuitive, delivering in key moments.
Defensively, he’s a wall. He won possession 12 times against Bournemouth, the most by any Arsenal player this season. Off the ball, he’s humble and reliable. Spain’s coach called him the second-best midfielder after Rodri. These skills make him versatile and vital.
Better Than the Rest?
Compare him to others: Haaland scores more, but Zubimendi impacts every phase. Rodri at Manchester City is great, but Zubimendi has adapted faster to the Premier League’s pace. He’s been nominated for Player of the Month and called the signing of the season. Unlike flashier players, he does the dirty work that wins titles.
Experts say he’s underrated because he doesn’t seek spotlight. But his sense of space (rated 296) and attacking threat (69.35) rank high league-wide. In a league full of stars, his consistency shines.
Driving Arsenal’s Title Push
Arsenal’s strong start owes much to Zubimendi. He’s helped them challenge for the title after 22 years. Arteta trusts him in big games, like against Atletico Madrid where he was exceptional without stats. His leadership earns respect from everyone.
Pundits like Robbie Earle call him Arsenal’s key to success. If they win silverware, he’ll be the unsung hero.
Why He’s the Best
Zubimendi combines skill, smarts, and heart. In simple terms, he makes Arsenal tick. While others score highlights, he builds the foundation. That’s why he’s the Premier League’s best—quietly dominating.
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