Real Madrid Left Devastated as Martin Zubimendi Reveals Shocking Transfer Truth
Arsenal's central midfielder Martín Zubimendi firmly denied that he represents "absolutely not" the solution to Real Madrid's midfield challenges.
Previous Madrid coach Xabi Alonso reportedly advocated strongly for his former team to target Zubimendi last summer when his departure from Real Sociedad became clear, but the Spanish giants chose not to enter the bidding war as Arsenal secured the Spanish international for approximately £55 million ($76 million at that time).
As Madrid now acknowledges their requirement for a fresh pace-controlling midfielder to replace the gap created by Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić's departures, Alonso might feel his judgment was correct regarding Zubimendi's signing, though the player maintains he isn't Madrid's missing component at the Santiago Bernabéu.
"I disagree," Zubimendi stated to Cadena SER. "Madrid possesses sufficient quality players to succeed.
"Absolutely not, definitely not."
What Makes Martín Zubimendi Attractive to Real Madrid?
What Makes Martín Zubimendi Attractive to Real Madrid?
Madrid's achievements throughout the last ten years can largely be credited to their central midfield excellence. The combination of Modrić, Kroos and the defensively-focused Casemiro ruled European football, securing four Champions League victories before Casemiro's 2022 exit, following which Modrić and Kroos claimed another championship and reached six personal titles each.
Kroos stepped away from football in summer 2024 while Modrić, currently 40 years of age, was permitted to join AC Milan after the previous campaign concluded, and circumstances have deteriorated since.
Exceptional skill exists within Madrid's midfield options: Jude Bellingham, Aurelién Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Güler and Dani Ceballos. Player quality isn't questionable, but significant doubts exist regarding their long-term compatibility as a unit.
A primary concern for Madrid supporters involves insufficient match control, frequently leaving Madrid vulnerable defensively and dependent on exceptional individual performances from their attacking stars to mask underlying problems. Obviously, expecting Kylian Mbappé to contribute half (37) of the squad's season total (75) goals isn't maintainable.
This midfield composure deficit feels foreign to numerous Madrid supporters following years of observing Modrić and Kroos, skilled technicians proficient in both attacking and defensive phases, and Alonso reportedly identified the necessity for acquiring a comparable player profile during the summer window.
During that period, Zubimendi was consistently selected for Spain's national team with 180 La Liga appearances to his credit, emerging as another Spanish midfielder naturally gifted in possession retention and distribution. Though he hasn't achieved the legendary status of Modrić and Kroos, his profile clearly matched supporter expectations.
Skeptics of Zubimendi's abilities should observe his influence on Arsenal's midfield structure. With him anchoring their system, Arsenal boasts the Premier League's strongest defense and stands as clear favorites for the English championship. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has enthusiastically praised his midfield conductor as "outstanding."
Should Madrid eventually pursue their interest in Zubimendi, the transfer fee would now exceed twice Arsenal's summer payment.
Which Alternative Players Could Real Madrid Target?
Which Alternative Players Could Real Madrid Target?
That's the crucial question.
Players with these characteristics are scarce and highly sought-after, making market availability uncommon. Those possessing top-tier experience typically belong to competing clubs, and whether clubs are willing to gamble on unproven talent presents separate challenges.
Regarding established stars, several names consistently appear in Madrid transfer rumors. Manchester City's Rodri and Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister frequently surface as potential targets, though recent discussions focus on Enzo Fernández and Vitinha from Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain respectively.
Any of these four players would require enormous transfer fees, with all their current clubs positioned to decline such approaches given their own financial capabilities.
Premier League duo Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton seem to be emerging options, though both face significant domestic competition. As mentioned previously, competition for established players intensifies whenever they become available.
Madrid might be compelled to invest in younger talent who haven't yet demonstrated elite-level capabilities. Among these prospects, 20-year-old Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar reportedly ranks prominently.
Whatever direction Madrid executives take this summer, substantial risk will be involved—either financially or regarding immediate contribution. Zubimendi supporters will emphasize how the Arsenal player represented the closest guarantee Madrid could have reasonably expected.