Luis de la Fuente has described Martin Zubimendi as the “second best” midfielder in the world, behind Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. The Spain manager made the comments after leading his country to a second World Cup triumph in North America.
Zubimendi role in Spain success
Zubimendi struggled for game time during Spain’s route to the final but remained part of the squad that beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time in East Rutherford, New Jersey. It is the second major title Spain have won under De la Fuente, who also led them to Euro 2024 glory with a win over England in Berlin.
De la Fuente had Rodri as the anchor, with Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo providing creativity. Barcelona’s Pedri and Gavi competed for the No8 roles, while Zubimendi backed up Rodri in defensive midfield.
De la Fuente defends Rodri
Rodri won the World Cup Golden Ball following his 2024 Ballon d’Or, but some fans thought the honour was undeserved. “With all due respect, and I don’t mean to offend anyone, I said that doubting Rodri was an insult to football intelligence, obviously,” De la Fuente told TVE. “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. 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 at Arsenal
Zubimendi played a key role in Arsenal’s Premier League title win last term, his debut campaign in English football. He played all 38 league games, scoring five goals as the Gunners won their first title since 2003.
