Martin Zubimendi Defends Spain's Midfield Pace

Martin Zubimendi is surprised by critics suggesting Spain's midfielders cannot play at a high tempo.

Spain were held to a 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in their opening Group H match, with 27 shots on goal.

La Roja have now had 49 shots and completed exactly 2,500 passes since they last scored a World Cup goal.

Zubimendi believes any assertion that Spain play too slowly is wide of the mark, citing players with mobility.

He told reporters: "I am surprised by that debate, Spain's midfield is not something that slows down the game."

Spain will face Saudi Arabia on Sunday, looking to get their World Cup campaign back on track.

Zubimendi had a busy club campaign in 2025-26, with 57 appearances in all competitions, the joint-most of any player in Europe's top five leagues.

He started 48 matches and totalled 4,298 minutes, and is keen to repay Spain boss Luis de la Fuente's faith.

De la Fuente recently suggested Zubimendi could follow in Rodri's footsteps by winning the Ballon d'Or.

Zubimendi said: "I've got a long way to go, but it shows the faith he has in me, he knew me well at youth level."

He is happy to be with the national team, despite feeling fatigued at one point during the club campaign.

Spain will hope to avoid failing to score in three consecutive World Cup games for the very first time on Sunday.

The match against Saudi Arabia will be held in Atlanta, with Spain looking to take control of the group.

Zubimendi's Arsenal won the Premier League title and finished as Champions League runners-up, losing to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties in last month's final.

He is looking to bring his club form to the national team, and help Spain succeed in the World Cup.

The Spanish media has heavily criticised the technical midfield trio of Rodri, Fabian Ruiz and Pedri.

But Zubimendi is confident in his team's ability, and is looking forward to the match against Saudi Arabia.

Spain have moved the ball upfield at a direct speed of 1.66 metres per second, with 27 of the 48 teams at the tournament moving the ball vertically at a quicker speed.

Zubimendi is focused on the task at hand, and is not getting distracted by the criticism.

He is looking to help Spain win their next match, and take a step closer to lifting the trophy.