Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently hinted that the club's 'best player' is summer signing Martin Zubimendi, who has scored six goals in 34 appearances this season. The £60m midfielder from Real Sociedad has played the most minutes of any Arsenal outfield player, exceeding expectations with his goal return despite being signed primarily as a defensive midfielder.

Arteta's pursuit of Zubimendi began 12 months before his arrival, initially discussing the possibility while completing a deal for his Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino in summer 2024. The 27-year-old Spanish international brings passing ability, on-pitch intelligence, and a history of winning important trophies, including Spain's Euro 2024 final victory over England. His signing has given Declan Rice the licence to take his attacking game to the next level.

Zubimendi's tactical versatility has transformed Arsenal's build-up play. The midfielder excels at receiving the ball behind pressing strikers and progressing play through first-time passes, timely dribbles, or incisive through balls. His willingness to make adventurous runs off the ball, vacating his defensive midfield position to push into attacking areas, has become a key weapon against deep-lying defenses. This tactical flexibility, combined with his composure in front of goal, has made Zubimendi an indispensable component of Arsenal's squad.