Luis de la Fuente hails Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi as world’s second best

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has described Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi as the second-best player in the world in his position, placing him behind only Ballon d'Or winner Rodri.

The Spaniard made the comments after leading Spain to World Cup glory, with both Rodri and Zubimendi playing key roles throughout the tournament.

Although Rodri remained Spain's first-choice holding midfielder during the World Cup, De la Fuente reserved special praise for Arsenal's Premier League winner.

Speaking to TVE, the Spain manager dismissed criticism of Rodri before highlighting just how highly he rates Zubimendi.

"With all due respect, and I don't mean to offend anyone, I said that doubting Rodri was an insult to football intelligence, obviously."

"He's the best player in the world in his position, knowing that we have Martin Zubimendi behind him, who is also another great player, surely the second best in the world."

Rodri added another individual honour to his growing collection after winning the World Cup Golden Ball, having previously claimed the 2024 Ballon d'Or.

The Manchester City midfielder has also attracted strong interest from Real Madrid during the current transfer window, but De la Fuente believes there is no better defensive midfielder in world football.

The Spain boss also praised Rodri's recovery during the tournament.

"But we knew we had to follow a process and the deadlines we had set."

"He improved game by game, and the fact is that Rodri, even at 50 per cent, is better than many other players."

Zubimendi enjoyed an outstanding debut campaign in English football after joining Arsenal.

The midfielder featured in all 38 Premier League matches, scoring five goals as Mikel Arteta's side secured their first league title since 2003.

His consistency in midfield quickly established him as one of the Gunners' most influential players, with his performances now earning recognition at international level.

Although opportunities were more limited with Spain due to Rodri's presence, Zubimendi remained an important member of the squad that defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the World Cup final.

De la Fuente's comments underline just how highly Zubimendi is regarded within Spanish football.

Already a Premier League champion in his first season at Arsenal, the 26-year-old has now received one of the biggest endorsements of his career from the manager who guided Spain to consecutive major international trophies.

Martin Zubimendi will return to Arsenal looking to build on an outstanding debut season after helping Spain win the World Cup. The midfielder is expected to remain a key figure in Mikel Arteta's plans as the Gunners look to defend their Premier League title.