3 roles Martin Zubimendi could play at Arsenal

Martin Zubimendi has now signed for Arsenal and he could fit into the side in a variety of ways
Zubimendi is officially a Gunner
Zubimendi is officially a Gunner | Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/GettyImages
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2. Shifting to number eight

Declan Rice
Rice is the current number eight for Arsenal | Shaun Botterill/GettyImages

Zubimendi does also have experience playing in a slightly more advanced midfield role and he could possibly shift to the number eight position for the Gunners. Just like his performances at the base, he has impressed as a more attacking player.

The Spain international had a lower pass success rate than Arsenal's midfielders last season, but the number of his passes forward were far higher than his new side's options. Out of 1752 passes played, 84.42% were successful and 31.39% went forward. This advanced passing is something that could be of use to Arteta's side.

However, the only issue would be Declan Rice's status as the current occupant of the left-sided number eight role. The Englishman has made the position his own since signing for the Gunners and his ability to impact the game has decreased when switching back to his original role as a six.

Playing Zubimendi as an eight could work, but it would mean having to shift Rice. While Arteta might consider exploring this, I don't think it would be the best choice in the long-term.

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