Martin Zubimendi left out as Spain starts vs Argentina: here’s why

Martin Zubimendi did not start for Spain when La Roja kicked off their friendly against Argentina on 20 July 2026 at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

What happened?

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente made four surprise omissions from his starting XI for the clash with Argentina. Alongside Zubimendi, Álvaro Morata, Fermín López and Alejandro Grimaldo also began the game on the bench. The hosts started with Rodri in midfield and Lamine Yamal on the right wing as they looked to build rhythm ahead of the Nations League cycle.

The match finished 1-1 after a late equaliser from Argentina cancelled out Spain’s early lead. Julián Álvarez struck in the 89th minute to salvage a point for Lionel Scaloni’s side after Ansu Fati had put Spain ahead inside the first half-hour.

Why it matters for Martin Zubimendi

Zubimendi has been a fixture in Spain’s midfield under de la Fuente, but the coach opted for a different shape against Argentina. The Real Sociedad man is known for his ball progression and positional discipline, yet de la Fuente chose to pair Rodri with Pedri and Gavi in a midfield three. That left Zubimendi on the sidelines despite his strong Euro 2024 showing.

Spain’s Nations League campaign resumes in September, and de la Fuente may rotate again to manage squad fatigue. Zubimendi’s exclusion signals either a tactical tweak or a rest ahead of tougher fixtures. Either way, the midfielder will be watching closely as La Roja look to stay unbeaten in their next run.

What comes next?

Spain’s next Nations League games come against Switzerland and Denmark in early September. De la Fuente has a week to review footage and decide whether Zubimendi returns to the XI or stays in the dugout. The midfielder can expect minutes in the Real Sociedad pre-season too, where he’ll need sharp form to force his way back into contention.

For Argentina, the draw keeps Scaloni’s unbeaten streak alive as they eye another Copa América push. But the result also underlines Spain’s depth: even with Zubimendi missing, they carved out chances and stayed in the game until the very end.

Zubimendi’s path forward

Zubimendi turns 26 in September and is entering the prime of his career. His Real Sociedad contract runs until 2028, and he’s set to play a key role in their Europa League campaign this autumn. Still, international minutes are the currency that drives top-tier recognition. One more omission could push him down the pecking order behind rising talents like Bryan Zaragoza or Nico Williams.

De la Fuente has shown he’s willing to gamble on form and fitness. Zubimendi’s next move is simple: keep impressing at club level and wait for his chance to shine in red.