Martin Zubimendi once again proved why he’s quickly becoming a key player for Arsenal, even as the Gunners were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
Mikel Arteta’s men looked on course for a hard-fought victory after goals from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard overturned Dan Ballard’s opener. However, a late strike from Brian Brobbey in stoppage time denied Arsenal all three points.
Despite the disappointment, one player’s performance still had fans buzzing — and that was new signing Martin Zubimendi, whose intelligence and composure in midfield didn’t go unnoticed.
Arsenal Fans Praise Zubimendi’s Footballing IQ
Returning from injury, Zubimendi showcased his trademark calmness and tactical awareness, dictating play from deep and keeping Arsenal’s rhythm intact.
He looked a little rusty in the opening stages, but the Spanish midfielder grew into the game, taking control after the break and helping Arsenal dominate possession in the second half. His sharp passing and intelligent movement gave the Gunners more balance and purpose in midfield.
Zubimendi even grabbed an assist, setting up Leandro Trossard’s superb finish that temporarily put Arsenal ahead.
Supporters took to social media to express their admiration for the former Real Sociedad man’s display, highlighting his incredible awareness and decision-making.
“Zubimendi has got a proper brain, that guy,” one fan wrote.
Another added: “Zubimendi is a unicorn — both our most defensive and creative midfielder. His vision is unreal.”
A third supporter summed it up perfectly: “Zubimendi’s footballing IQ is just too big!”
Zubimendi’s Standout Stats vs Sunderland
The 26-year-old’s numbers back up the praise. According to Sofascore, he had more touches than any other Arsenal player (91) and completed 68 out of 76 passes — an impressive 89% accuracy rate.
He also tried his luck with three shots and battled hard off the ball, winning 10 of his 13 duels, the fourth-highest in the match.
| Statistic | Zubimendi vs Sunderland |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Touches | 91 |
| Accurate passes | 68/76 (89%) |
| Shots | 3 |
| Duels won | 10/13 |
Those figures perfectly reflect the balance he brings — disciplined defensively but brave enough to take risks in possession.
A Smart Signing Paying Off
Zubimendi’s seamless adaptation to Premier League football has been one of Arsenal’s biggest positives this season. His awareness, positioning, and technical quality make him look like he’s been part of the team for years.
And while Arsenal’s draw at Sunderland may have felt like two points dropped, the performance of their new midfield general offered plenty of encouragement.
As one fan summed it up on X:
“Zubimendi has just been a different class today.”
If he continues at this level, Arsenal might have finally found the perfect long-term successor to Granit Xhaka — and a midfielder capable of taking them to the next level.
