Arteta Hails Zubimendi as ‘Similar’ to Declan Rice After Chelsea Win
Declan Rice is the glue that holds Arsenal together – a vital cog in Mikel Arteta‘s plans and the rock upon which the Gunners rely.
The England international has been on fire since his arrival in 2023 – catapulting himself into the company of the world’s top midfielders.
With his adaptability, leadership qualities and capacity to influence the game from start to finish, he’s almost impossible to replace in Arteta’s eyes.
And yet, the Arsenal boss believes he’s spotted another midfielder with many of the same qualities – Martin Zubimendi.
Zubimendi & Rice – The Unstoppable Midfield Duo
Since joining from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2025, Zubimendi has rapidly formed a midfield partnership with Rice that’s proving to be one of the most potent in Europe.
Its impact on Arsenal’s engine room has been nothing short of incredible – providing an ideal balance, control, and dynamism. When Zubimendi drops deep to anchor the midfield, it gives Rice the freedom to push up and get involved in the attacking play.
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The dynamic works beautifully both ways. When Zubimendi makes his way into advanced areas, Rice drops back to cover him, making it nigh on impossible for opponents to keep track of his movements.
Zubimendi’s Moment of Magic – Leaves Arteta Comparing Him to Rice
In the Gunners’ 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first leg win over Chelsea on January 14, 2026, Zubimendi conjured a moment of pure magic.
He picked up a clever flick from Viktor Gyokeres and then fooled the Chelsea defence with a sharp piece of footwork. Before eventually firing a composed left-footed strike into the bottom corner – restoring Arsenal’s two-goal lead in a game that had all the makings of a barnburner.
Arteta was left utterly in awe of the display. In an interview with the club’s official website after the match, he made some direct comparisons to Rice:
“To me, when we talk about Zubi, it’s what else is he capable of doing? He can do everything he wants; similar qualities to Declan in some ways. We just need to keep unlocking that in his system – in his brain – because he’s so good at occupying space, carrying the ball, dribbling, winning duels and getting into the box. He’s got this knack of staying composed and seeing the game unfold before him. Sometimes I think the picture is clear enough for the most part… for a player with his ability, it’s phenomenal. Not just the goal, the whole performance.”
Zubimendi – The Standout Signing of the 2025 Transfer Window
Arsenal’s summer 2025 rebuild brought in eight new signings – all of whom have added quality to the squad.
Guys like Gyokeres, who’s had his ups and downs with goal-scoring, Eberechi Eze, Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie (on loan) and Noni Madueke have all made a positive impact.
But Martin Zubimendi stands head and shoulders above the rest as the standout signing of the summer.
He’s adapted to the Premier League without any issues at all – a feat in itself, considering it’s a challenge that can prove daunting for even the most seasoned players. And the Spaniard’s Arteta can’t believe how quickly he’s settled in.
With Arsenal pushing hard for the title, Zubimendi’s all-around brilliance and growing threat as an attacking force could prove the difference between them lifting silverware or not. If the Gunners are successful in their championship bid, he’ll be a major factor.
Also Read: Arsenal Identify Next Contract Priorities After Bukayo Saka Extension
Arteta Hails Zubimendi as ‘Similar’ to Declan Rice After Chelsea Win