Martin Zubimendi played an active and significant match in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City on 21 September 2025 at the Emirates Stadium.
Who is Martin Zubimendi?
Zubimendi is a Spanish defensive midfielder.
He signed for Arsenal this summer, in July 2025, having played many years with Real Sociedad.
Martin’s play style is relaxed, good in possession, frequently helps in linking defense and attack.
What happened vs. Manchester City?
City opened the scoring. Erling Haaland opened the scoring in the 9th minute with a quick counter-attack.
Arsenal dominated most of the rest of play. They had greater possession, harried City, attempted to fashion chances.
Zubimendi attempted a shot from range in the second half. He curled it just over the bar. He also attempted to get himself into the game constantly, eager for the ball and attempting to take play forward.
Arsenal made substitutions. Eberechi Eze was brought in at half-time, Bukayo Saka came on. These changes helped push for an equalizer.
The equaliser came in stoppage time (about the 90+3 minute) via Gabriel Martinelli. He lobbed the ball over City’s keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, after a pass from Eberechi Eze.
Zubimendi’s performance
He got good ratings: around 6.5 to 7 out of 10 from a few sources.
The 26-year-old looked more impactful in the later part of game. He was calm in midfield, attempted short passes, started attacks and sat deeper to stop City’s counter-threats.
He wasted one opportunity (the curler) that might have shifted momentum. Otherwise, his contribution was unyielding.
Key takeaway
Martin Zubimendi didn’t score or provide assists, but his influence was telling. The Spanish international stabilized Arsenal’s midfield after the early setback. His resilience, topped with tactical interchange from Arteta, enabled Arsenal to maintain pressure on City. The late equalizer was a direct consequence of that pressure.
Author’s Insight
For Zubimendi, this is another indication that he is adapting nicely into Arsenal, both in high-profile matches and in pressure situations. He has become so reliable in Arsenal’s midfield along with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. Football fans who know the significance of pivot position will understand the work of Martin Zubimendi.
