Arsenal's temporary return to the top of the Premier League table after a win over Newcastle United has brought relief, but not all reactions have been positive. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has expressed disappointment with one of Mikel Arteta's key signings, while midfielder Declan Rice has laid out the points target for the remainder of the season.
Neville Disappointed in Zubimendi
Despite Arsenal securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Newcastle, the performance was far from convincing. Newcastle dominated possession and had more shots, but Eberechi Eze's goal proved decisive. The match also saw Kai Havertz pick up an injury, casting doubt on his availability for upcoming fixtures.
Speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, Neville singled out Martin Zubimendi for criticism. The Spain international joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad last summer for £55.8 million and has made 33 league starts this season, more than any other outfield player. Only Declan Rice has played more minutes among outfielders, and that by a slim margin.
“I thought at the start of the season that Zubimendi was a great signing,” Neville said. “He's been a good player for Arsenal, but right now I was expecting that this would be where Zubimendi would be the player. Who's going to be the difference player? I thought Gyokeres would get the goals for them in these big moments and get to 2-0. His lack of quality at the end was poor on that counterattack. He's got to do better than that.”
Neville drew comparisons with midfield maestros like Andrea Pirlo, Paul Scholes, Rodri, and Bernardo Silva, suggesting Zubimendi has not dictated play as expected. “He's struggling in the games and he has done for a few weeks now,” Neville added.
The criticism may be harsh given Zubimendi’s heavy workload in his debut Premier League campaign, but Neville also questioned Arteta’s midfield balance, particularly how to integrate Rice, Zubimendi, and Martin Odegaard without sacrificing attacking potency.
Rice Outlines Points Target
With Manchester City holding a game in hand and goal difference tight, Arsenal can ill afford any more slip-ups after recent losses to City and Bournemouth narrowed their lead. Declan Rice has issued a rallying cry, insisting the Gunners must win all remaining fixtures.
“The three points were massive today,” Rice said after the Newcastle win. “After the week we had against Manchester City, there was a lot of encouragement to take from that game, but we knew coming into this, with five games left, we have to win all five. To tick that one off today was a real boost. So we’re really, really happy with the win today.”
Arsenal’s remaining Premier League matches are against Fulham (home), West Ham (away), Burnley (home), and Crystal Palace (away). The trip to Selhurst Park on the final day looks particularly challenging, as Palace are unbeaten in their last four home games.
In addition to domestic duties, Arsenal face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday, as they fight on two fronts for a historic end to the campaign.
