Fans Quickly Judge Martin Zubimendi After Just 45 Minutes Against Manchester United
Football supporters have formed strong opinions about Martin Zubimendi after watching merely half a match of his performance against Manchester United in the Europa League. The Spanish midfielder returned to Real Sociedad’s starting lineup on Thursday after missing the first leg due to illness.
With Arsenal and Liverpool reportedly showing keen interest in the 26-year-old, many eyes were focused on his display at Old Trafford. The Gunners are particularly attentive, potentially considering activating his £51 million release clause in the upcoming transfer window.
However, the initial reaction from many Arsenal supporters on social media has been less than enthusiastic after his first-half showing. Their assessment suggests he might not be the solution to the team’s midfield challenges.
One fan expressed confusion about Zubimendi’s reputation: “Swear the only time I’ve seen Zubimendi play well was for Spain against England in the Euros, he’s always average every time I watch him for Sociedad. What’s so special about him that every top club in Europe want him?”
More critical comments emerged from Arsenal supporters:
- “Zubimendi is awful. Cancel the deal and go and sign Bruno G.”
- “Zubimendi is just incredibly average man, does not improve us in any way.”
- “Zubimendi is not the answer to our problems.”
These reactions contrast with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher’s recent analysis on Monday Night Football, where he referenced Zubimendi as part of Arsenal’s potential solution. Carragher argued that Arsenal’s issue isn’t their striker situation but rather their creativity in midfield.
“Forget bringing in a number nine, the first thing they might have to do is sign more creative players,” Carragher explained. “The fact that it looks like they’re going to buy Zubimendi in the summer and maybe replace Partey in the holding midfield position, you’re getting a different profile of player.”
He added: “That first step to actually being more creative next season will help them be a bit more competitive in the Premier League.”
Transfer Speculation and Premier League Interest
The Spanish international has been on the radar of top Premier League clubs for some time. Liverpool notably failed in their pursuit of him last summer. Despite Arsenal’s apparent interest in triggering his release clause, these early reactions highlight the divided opinions about whether he would succeed in the Premier League.
Judging a player’s ability based on a single half of football may seem premature, especially considering Zubimendi was returning from illness. Additionally, his performances for Spain during international competitions have demonstrated his capabilities at the highest level.
What remains to be seen is whether Arsenal, Liverpool, or other interested clubs will pursue the midfielder despite these mixed reviews, or if they’ll turn their attention to alternative targets in the upcoming transfer window.
Is Martin Zubimendi the right fit for Premier League football? Share your thoughts on his potential impact at Arsenal or Liverpool in the comments below and subscribe to our newsletter for more transfer news and analysis as the summer window approaches.