When Martin Zubimendi arrived at the Emirates in July 2025, many expected a steady defensive anchor. Few anticipated he would become the undisputed heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing side. Following a clinical 3-0 win over Sunderland in February 2026, the debate is over: the Spaniard is no longer just a “signing”—he is the blueprint for Arsenal’s success.
Arteta’s ‘Best Player’ Admission
The label “best player” isn’t fan hyperbole; it came from the manager himself. Following a gritty 1-0 win against Crystal Palace earlier this season, Arteta revealed that the opposition’s primary tactical instruction was to man-mark Zubimendi, whom he explicitly called Arsenal’s “best player.”
The Stats: A Record-Breaking Debut Season
At 27, Zubimendi has found a level of goal-scoring form that eluded him during his years at Real Sociedad.
- Minutes Played: Leads all Arsenal outfield players with over 2,180 minutes this term.
- Goal Output: Has netted 6 goals in 35 appearances—his career-best return.
- Passing Accuracy: Maintains a staggering 89.1% completion rate, acting as the primary pivot for the Gunners’ transition play.
Unlocking Declan Rice: The Tactical Shift
The most significant impact of Zubimendi’s arrival has been the tactical liberation of Declan Rice. With Zubimendi sitting at the base of the midfield, Rice has been granted the “license to roam,” transforming into a box-to-box threat that has pushed Arsenal four points clear at the top of the Premier League as of February 2026.
Zubimendi vs. The Competition
While Martin Ødegaard provides the flair and Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal’s new striking sensation) provides the goals, Zubimendi provides the stability.
- Elite Intelligence: His ability to read play was forged in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.
- Box-to-Box Threat: His late runs into the box have surprised even Arteta, who admitted he “didn’t expect” such a prolific return.
The Road Ahead: A Title in Sight?
Arsenal spent 12 months laying the groundwork for this deal, initially scouting Zubimendi while finalizing the Mikel Merino transfer in 2024. That long-term planning is paying off. With a “Supercomputer” currently giving Arsenal an 85% probability of winning the 2025/26 Premier League title, Zubimendi’s consistency will be the deciding factor in the final 12 games.
