Martin Zubimendi Praised by Spain Manager After Portugal Win

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has called Martin Zubimendi 'the second-best in the world' after the midfielder helped La Roja beat Portugal 3-1 on 12 Jul 2026. The Real Sociedad star anchored the midfield in a Nations League clash that saw Spain control possession and limit Portugal to few chances.

De la Fuente didn't hold back after the match. He said Zubimendi is 'the second-best midfielder in the world right now' behind only Rodri. The manager praised his composure, passing range, and defensive work.

'He reads the game at a different level,' de la Fuente told reporters. 'For his age, the maturity he shows is incredible. He's a player who makes everyone around him better.'

Zubimendi started in the deep-lying role and completed 94% of his passes. He made four interceptions and won six duels. His distribution helped Spain break Portugal's press and create chances for the forwards.

The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes. He didn't score or assist, but his work off the ball and quick transitions were key to Spain's rhythm. The team went 2-0 up inside 30 minutes.

This isn't just a throwaway compliment. De la Fuente has built Spain's system around a double pivot, and Zubimendi has become his go-to partner for Rodri. That pairing shut down Portugal's midfield, which includes Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva.

Zubimendi has 34 caps now. He's no longer a backup: he's a starter in a team that just won the Nations League group stage match convincingly. The praise from his manager adds weight to the idea he's among Europe's elite.

Spain's next fixture is against Switzerland on 15 Jul 2026. Zubimendi is expected to start again. With the World Cup qualifiers coming later this year, his form is critical for both club and country.

At Real Sociedad, he remains the midfield anchor. Transfer rumors have cooled, but performances like this keep top clubs watching. For now, he's focused on winning with Spain.

De la Fuente's words carry weight. When a national team manager calls you the second-best in the world, people listen. Zubimendi just let his feet do the talking.