Martín Zubimendi’s Playing Style: A Detailed Analysis

Martín Zubimendi, the 24-year-old Spanish midfielder set to join Arsenal from Real Sociedad, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most promising defensive midfielders. His playing style is characterized by a blend of tactical intelligence, technical proficiency, and understated elegance, making him a perfect fit for modern, possession-based systems like Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. Below is an in-depth look at the key facets of Zubimendi’s playing style.

1. Defensive Solidity and Positional Awareness

Zubimendi excels as a deep-lying playmaker, typically operating as a No. 6 (defensive midfielder) in a single or double pivot. His greatest strength is his exceptional positional sense, which allows him to read the game and intercept opposition moves before they develop. He is adept at anticipating danger, often stepping in to break up attacks with well-timed tackles or interceptions.

• Statistical Insight: In the 2024/2025 La Liga season, Zubimendi averaged 1.6 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per 90 minutes, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposition play.
• Comparison: His defensive work rate and intelligence draw comparisons to players like Rodri (Manchester City) and Sergio Busquets, though he is more mobile than the latter.

Zubimendi is not an overly physical player but relies on his brain to outsmart opponents, positioning himself to cut passing lanes and protect the backline effectively.

2. Ball Distribution and Composure

Zubimendi’s technical quality sets him apart from many defensive midfielders. He is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and has the vision to initiate attacks from deep positions. His passing range is impressive, combining short, crisp passes to maintain possession with longer, progressive balls to switch play or find teammates in advanced areas.

• Key Traits: Zubimendi boasts a high pass completion rate (around 88% in La Liga 2024/2025), reflecting his reliability in possession. He is particularly effective at playing through the lines, breaking opposition presses with precise passes.
• Role in Build-Up: At Real Sociedad, he often acted as the anchor in midfield, dictating tempo and recycling possession. His calmness under pressure makes him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s build-from-the-back philosophy.

3. Versatility and Tactical Flexibility

While primarily a defensive midfielder, Zubimendi’s skill set allows him to adapt to various roles. He can operate as a lone pivot in a 4-3-3, shielding the defense, or as part of a double pivot in a 4-2-3-1, where he balances defensive duties with box-to-box contributions. Occasionally, he has even filled in as a centre-back for Real Sociedad, showcasing his tactical intelligence and composure in high-pressure situations.

• Adaptability: His ability to play multiple roles gives Mikel Arteta options to tweak Arsenal’s midfield structure, whether partnering him with Declan Rice or allowing Rice to push forward.

4. Work Rate and Mobility

Zubimendi is not a flashy player, but his relentless work rate and stamina are critical to his effectiveness. He covers the pitch diligently, pressing opponents to regain possession and supporting teammates in both defensive and attacking phases. His mobility allows him to track runners and close gaps, making him a vital cog in a high-pressing system.

• Pressing: Zubimendi’s 2024/2025 stats show he averaged 5.1 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, highlighting his proactive approach off the ball.

5. Goal and Assist Contributions

While not a prolific scorer or creator, Zubimendi chips in with occasional goals and assists, often from well-timed arrivals in the box or precise set-piece deliveries. In the 2024/2025 season, he recorded 2 goals and 1 assist in 32 La Liga matches, with a goals-per-90 rate of 0.07. His offensive output is secondary to his primary role as a facilitator and stabilizer, but his ability to contribute in the final third adds another dimension to his game.

6. Leadership and Mentality

Despite his young age, Zubimendi has shown leadership qualities, often captaining Real Sociedad in the absence of senior players. His calm demeanor and professionalism on and off the pitch have earned him praise from coaches and teammates alike. This mentality will be crucial as he transitions to the high-pressure environment of the Premier League.

How Zubimendi Fits at Arsenal

Zubimendi’s playing style aligns seamlessly with Mikel Arteta’s vision of a possession-based, tactically disciplined team. His ability to anchor the midfield, break up play, and distribute the ball will complement Arsenal’s existing midfielders like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard. He could allow Rice to play a more advanced role, providing defensive cover while maintaining Arsenal’s fluidity in attack. His familiarity with high-pressing systems and his experience in European competitions (Europa League with Real Sociedad) will ease his adaptation to the Premier League.

Areas for Growth

While Zubimendi is a polished player, there are areas where he can improve:

• Physicality: The Premier League’s intensity may require him to bulk up slightly or adapt to more physical duels.
• Attacking Output: Increasing his goal and assist tally could elevate him to the elite tier of midfielders, though this is not his primary role.
• Aerial Presence: At 5’11”, he is competent but not dominant in aerial duels, an area where he could develop further.

Conclusion

Martín Zubimendi is a complete defensive midfielder whose blend of defensive nous, technical quality, and tactical intelligence makes him a coup for Arsenal. His playing style—reminiscent of a modern-day Busquets with added mobility—positions him as a potential cornerstone of the Gunners’ midfield for years to come. As he prepares to don the red and white, Arsenal fans can expect a player who brings balance, composure, and understated brilliance to the Emirates. ❤️🤍

Stats and insights are based on Zubimendi’s 2024/2025 season performance with Real Sociedad, as of May 10, 2025.