Nacho Monreal loved the performance of key Arsenal star vs Nottingham Forest reflects the mood of Gunners supporters after a commanding home victory. Mikel Arteta’s side made light work of Ange Postecoglou’s Nottingham Forest, running out 3-0 winners and moving top of the Premier League table. The result not only underlined Arsenal’s title credentials but also showcased the quality of summer signing Martin Zubimendi, who scored twice and produced a dominant midfield display.
Former Arsenal left-back Nacho Monreal was quick to react on social media, praising his fellow Spaniard after an eye-catching performance. The midfielder’s arrival from Real Sociedad was one of the club’s most significant transfer moves of the summer, and Saturday’s display proved why Arsenal were so determined to land him.
Zubimendi’s brace was complemented by a second-half strike from Viktor Gyokeres, another big-money arrival who has hit the ground running. Together, the pair highlighted the depth and variety now at Arteta’s disposal. With Arsenal sitting top after four games, fans are daring to believe this could finally be the season their long wait for a Premier League title comes to an end. But is Zubimendi already the missing piece in Arsenal’s midfield puzzle?
Nacho Monreal hails Martin Zubimendi’s performance against Nottingham Forest
Monreal’s praise carried extra weight given his cult hero status among Arsenal fans. The defender, who spent six seasons at the Emirates, took to Instagram to share his delight at Zubimendi’s impact:
“What a player, Martin Zubimendi. Congrats, Gooners.” — Nacho Monreal on Instagram
The 26-year-old midfielder, who was also lauded in the Spanish press after excelling for Spain in World Cup qualifying against Bulgaria, has quickly adapted to life in North London. His stunning volley to open the scoring against Forest — a crisp strike from outside the penalty box — set the tone for Arsenal’s dominance.
Why Martin Zubimendi’s brace matters
For much of his career at Real Sociedad, Zubimendi was regarded as a traditional defensive pivot, screening the backline and recycling possession. However, under Arteta’s system he is being encouraged to break forward more often. Against Forest, he showed exactly that, timing his runs to perfection and finishing with composure.
His second goal highlighted his awareness inside the box, demonstrating that he is not just a shield in midfield but also a potential match-winner. Zubimendi himself admitted afterwards that goalscoring is an area he has been working on intensively.
Zubimendi reacts to his brace
“I was actually more focused on thinking about defending because they were on the counter, but then the ball fell at my feet, I took the shot and it went in. It’s something that I’ve been working on, really working hard to try and score more goals, which I’m so happy with my two goals today.” — Martin Zubimendi
The midfielder’s words underline a growing confidence and determination to add new dimensions to his game. For Arsenal, a midfielder who can break up play and also contribute goals is invaluable.
Martin Zubimendi – 2025/26 season stats
| Stat (2025/26) | Martin Zubimendi |
|---|---|
| Appearances (Premier League) | 4 |
| Minutes played | — |
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 84% |
| Touches vs Forest | 49 |
source: sofascore match data – 14 September 2025
The numbers show that Zubimendi is already delivering on both defensive and attacking fronts. An 84% pass accuracy combined with his brace against Forest illustrates his composure and adaptability in the Premier League.
Analyst verdict – by John William
Zubimendi’s arrival has given Arsenal a new dimension. For years, the Gunners have lacked a midfielder who can both anchor the team and provide genuine attacking thrust. His ability to balance defence with late runs into the box mirrors the qualities of some of the Premier League’s best modern midfielders.
Nacho Monreal’s praise highlights how quickly Zubimendi has earned respect. Arsenal’s midfield, long seen as their Achilles’ heel, suddenly looks like one of their greatest strengths. If Zubimendi continues this trajectory, he could be the signing that finally pushes Arteta’s project over the line in the title race.
Key insights
- Martin Zubimendi scored twice in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
- Nacho Monreal hailed his performance, calling him “What a player.”
- Zubimendi was named Man of the Match and completed 49 touches.
- The Spaniard is adding goals to his defensive skillset under Arteta.
- Arsenal remain top of the Premier League after four matches.
What’s next for Arsenal?
Arsenal now turn their attention to European duties, with a Champions League opener looming in midweek. Arteta will be hoping Zubimendi maintains his confidence and form on the biggest stage, especially given his growing importance in midfield.
Domestically, upcoming fixtures against [Manchester City] and [Newcastle United] will test Arsenal’s title credentials further. For Zubimendi, consistency will be key. If he can keep combining defensive discipline with attacking contributions, Arsenal may have found the complete midfielder they’ve been craving.
👉 Is Martin Zubimendi already Arsenal’s best summer signing — and can he become the key man in their Premier League title push?
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