Why Arsenal are signing 'brain of the future' Zubimendi

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Arsenal are optimistic they have secured the final element to complete the intricate arrangement of their midfield.

Martin Zubimendi, regarded as one of the top defensive midfielders globally, has finalized his transfer from Real Sociedad for £60 million— a move anticipated since January.

"He possesses an exceptional understanding of the game," Spanish reporter Roberto Ramajo shared with Sport. "He perceives things on the field that others do not notice.

"Zubimendi might not excel at any single thing with a perfect score, but he performs well across the board. In the Premier League, he can become a standout player in every aspect."

Ramajo refers to him as 'el cerebro del futuro,' meaning the brain of the future.

The 26-year-old Spain international Zubimendi turned down a transfer to Liverpool last summer and is now set to join a team that is a rival for the title.

There, he is expected to form a midfield trio with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.

What kind of player is Arsenal acquiring, and what will his function be at the Emirates Stadium?

Who is Zubimendi?

Zubimendi has made 236 appearances for Real Sociedad—his only club so far—and netted 10 goals.

However, scoring is not his primary role, as he chiefly plays as a defensive midfielder.

Last season, Real Sociedad employed various formations, predominantly utilizing a 4-1-4-1 setup with Zubimendi as the central figure.

In La Liga for the 2024-25 season, he ranked among the top five central midfielders for successful passes, long passes, progressive passes, touches, tackles, interceptions, aerial duels won, and the distance of successful forward passes (8.5 km).

“He isn't the epitome of technical skill, nor does he particularly shine in terms of vision, long-range passing, or interplay,” noted Real Sociedad analyst Ramajo.

“He performs effectively in every area required of a midfielder and consistently makes contributions. This is what distinguishes him, enabling him to thrive at Real Sociedad since his promotion to the first team.

“Martin possesses excellent tactical intelligence. He effectively occupies space on the field and has a keen awareness of his team’s requirements when aiding his colleagues.

"He has an exceptional grasp of the game because of his intelligence when off the ball. While he is praised when he has possession, I prefer his contributions when he doesn’t.”

How does he fit in with Spain?

Zubimendi has earned 19 caps for Spain and has been the primary holding midfielder in nearly every match since Rodri's injury during the Euro 2024 final against England.

When Rodri—who later won the Ballon d'Or—left the match at halftime, many analysts thought this would benefit England.

However, Zubimendi performed admirably upon entering, and Spain didn’t seem to miss Rodri as they secured a 2-1 win.

Spanish manager Luis de la Fuente has labeled him the second-best defensive midfielder in the world.

It is unfortunate for Zubimendi that the top spot goes to Manchester City's Rodri, as Spain typically fields only one player in that position.

"Zubimendi is, in contrast to Rodri, the intellect of what is to come," Ramajo stated. "I sense that the City player has already peaked, making it tough for him to advance any further."

"Rodri excels in his role, but Zubimendi has similar qualities and still has the potential to grow and enhance his game significantly."

"He is likely to follow in Rodri's footsteps, making his move to the Premier League, where a midfielder can truly excel."

Zubiemendi took full advantage of his opportunity with Spain during Rodri's injury absence, contributing with goals as well.

He netted two times in the Nations League for the 2024-25 season, once against Denmark and once in the final loss to Portugal.

In the knockout stages of the Nations League in 2025, he placed fifth for both passes and completed passes, second for interceptions, and seventh for tackles.

How will he fit in at Arsenal?

Zubiemendi's impressive performances have led to speculation that Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso's management, might attempt to steal the signing.

The connection could be significant since Alonso and Zubimendi come from the same youth academy - Antiguoko - and both played in the same number six role for Real Sociedad and Spain.

However, Zubiemendi appears determined to join Arsenal, where he is expected to fill the role previously held by Thomas Partey.

Partey's contract with Arsenal ended last Monday. He was charged on Thursday with five rape counts and one count of sexual assault, all of which he denies.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian participated in 35 Premier League matches for Arsenal last season, primarily in a central midfield position. Jorginho, who has since departed for Flamengo, started in nine games.

While Zubimendi is anticipated to take Partey's place in the Gunners lineup, Denmark's Christian Norgaard, who is close to joining from Brentford, is another possible contender.

Ramajo mentioned: "One of Zubimendi's aspirations is to play in the UK, as he is a true Premier League enthusiast. If he must leave his beloved club, it’s best to realize that ambition."

"At Arsenal, he won't face the extreme scrutiny he would in La Liga, where every move he makes would be watched closely."

While Partey often shifted towards the right for Arsenal (including playing time at right-back), Zubimendi has shown a tendency to move in both directions, with a lean towards the left.

Rice has filled the number six position for West Ham but generally operates further up the field for Arsenal in a three-man midfield alongside Odegaard.

Zubimendi's arrival could allow him even more freedom, as the Basque player is more agile than Partey and emphasizes defensive duties.

Last season, Zubimendi was more active in defense than Partey, with 56% of his touches occurring in his own half compared to Partey’s 48%.

Only 27% of his passes reached the final third, while Partey had 32%.

Ramajo commented, "He is someone who can effectively bring the ball forward from the back line, skillfully bypassing pressure with his precise inside passes and bold techniques, as Zubimendi mainly focuses on progressing the play."

"He possesses a significant strength - he thrives when alongside quality teammates and is capable of enhancing their performance."

"I believe his playing style can swiftly align with the demands of the Premier League, potentially facilitating his rise among the elite players in our continent."

Arsenal will be hoping that their spending this summer isn't over yet, as acquiring a true striker is on their list - this could also influence the performances of their midfield players.