Despite arriving at Arsenal as one of Europe’s best holding midfielders, Declan Rice has flourished into an attacking outlet under Mikel Arteta.
Declan Rice is now predominantly a number eight for Arsenal and England and Arteta deserves a ton of credit for his vision.
Had Rice stayed at West Ham United, there was little evidence suggesting that David Moyes was considering a more advanced role for the 26-year-old.
And now ahead of next season, some good news has fallen Rice’s way — Arsenal are currently booking a medical for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Arsenal have been confident about signing Zubimendi for some time now, and it seems as if Andrea Berta will finally get the deal over the line, negotiations that began whilst Edu was still around.
Martin Zubimendi will make Declan Rice even better next season
BBC Sport are reporting that Zubimendi is set for a medical and they also included in their report that Thomas Partey was in talks over a new contract at Arsenal.
And from Rice’s point of view, he should be absolutely over the moon with that news.
Photo By Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press via Getty Images
Photo By Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press via Getty Images
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Over the course of this season, Rice has occasionally been needed in the number six role when Partey has needed a rest or been suspended.
The Ghanaian’s fitness record has improved dramatically this season which has been a real positive for the Gunners, but Rice has still been needed to play in a deep role when Partey and Jorginho are unavailable.
Of course, this was the case against Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League tie — Arteta used Rice as the six when Partey was suspended and Arsenal lost the Englishman’s attacking threat.
But with Zubimendi around next season and Partey possibly staying put as well, Rice will have a licence to play as an eight all season long.
Martin Odegaard will also benefit from Martin Zubimendi arrival
Despite Arsenal’s determination to sign the Spaniard, there has been a lot of talk about Real Madrid hijacking a move for Zubimendi in recent months.
However, fans in N5 will be delighted to hear that Spain’s midfield enforcer will be on his way to the Emirates.
And in truth, it won’t just be Rice who’s pleased to see Zubimendi arrive at London Colney in the coming weeks or days.
Martin Odegaard might also benefit from his arrival, and perhaps the Arsenal captain will be able to recapture his best Arsenal form as a result.
Odegaard has always been most effective when playing in advanced areas — he’s better linking play on the edge of the box rather than driving the ball through midfield in transition.
And with Zubimendi behind him, the Norway international should be able to get back to what he does best.
Odegaard has been criticised this season, but perhaps Zubimendi’s arrival can truly unlock both Rice and the Arsenal skipper ahead of him.