Martin Zubimendi hailed as Arsenal’s best signing since Declan Rice

Arsenal are flying at the top of the Premier League, four points clear and unbeaten in Europe — and while much of the attention has centred on Declan Rice’s dominance in midfield, Martin Zubimendi is fast emerging as Mikel Arteta’s most transformative signing since Rice’s record-breaking arrival.

The £60 million summer signing from Real Sociedad has seamlessly slotted into Arsenal’s system, anchoring a midfield that remains fluid, aggressive, and tactically immaculate even without captain Martin Ødegaard. His blend of intelligence, positioning, and technical precision has elevated Arsenal’s control in games and allowed Rice to roam higher up the pitch — a balance that’s redefining how Arteta’s side dominate possession.

Arsenal’s statistics this season highlight just how effective their midfield has become. According to FBref, they lead the Premier League in successful through balls (40) — ahead of Manchester City (33), Liverpool (36), and Manchester United (35). That creative surge originates from the double axis of Rice and Zubimendi, who have forged a partnership that blends structure with freedom.

Rice continues to be Arsenal’s “engine,” ranking among the top Premier League midfielders for progressive passes, carries, and touches per 90. But Zubimendi’s arrival has unlocked new layers of fluidity. He acts as the tactical fulcrum — recycling possession, dictating tempo, and expertly anticipating transitions.

Described by Spanish football writer Alexandra Jonson as “world-class,” Zubimendi has justified every penny of his £60m fee so far. His performances have been less about headline-grabbing moments and more about constant, understated control — the kind of influence that keeps elite teams balanced and adaptable.

Data from Sofascore backs up his impact:

Those numbers underline his calm authority in possession and his ability to disrupt opposition build-up play.

“The 26-year-old is among the most intelligent deep playmakers of his generation.” “He’s world-class in reading spaces, retaining control, and maintaining progression in midfield.”

It’s no coincidence that Arsenal have maintained both rhythm and resilience even during Ødegaard’s absence. With Zubimendi marshalling the centre, the team hasn’t skipped a beat.

Zubimendi’s path from La Liga to the Premier League was always a question of timing. Liverpool had been among the clubs chasing his signature last summer, but the Spaniard was ultimately won over by Arteta’s project and Arsenal’s clear tactical vision.

Now, the move looks inspired. His discipline allows Rice to play box-to-box, while his metronomic control mirrors the traits of some of Europe’s best defensive midfielders — combining Sergio Busquets’ poise with Rodri’s efficiency.

At just 26, Zubimendi brings both experience and hunger to a side chasing their first league title since 2004.

In our view, Zubimendi has become the heartbeat of Arsenal’s midfield, even if Rice remains the emotional leader. His signing has not only added depth but redefined balance. Arteta finally has the kind of orchestrator who can dominate possession without slowing play — a crucial quality in high-stakes Premier League and Champions League contests.

If Arsenal go on to lift the title this season, much of the credit will belong to the quiet Spaniard at the centre of it all.

Arsenal continue their Premier League campaign after the international break, with Zubimendi expected to start in midfield when they host Tottenham at the Emirates on 23 November. With Arteta’s side unbeaten domestically and in Europe, the Spaniard’s influence could prove decisive as the title race intensifies.

👉 Arsenal fans — do you agree that Zubimendi has been the club’s best signing since Declan Rice?