Martín Zubimendi

Key strength: Ball retention

Deep-lying playmaker

At the summit of the Premier League, Arsenal's title charge is being orchestrated from deep midfield by Martín Zubimendi. The 27-year-old Spanish metronome, signed for €70 million from Real Sociedad, has become Mikel Arteta's indispensable tactical anchor as the Gunners sit proudly in first place. Across 35 appearances this season, Zubimendi has contributed 7 goals and 3 assists—a remarkable attacking return for a defensive midfielder—while amassing 2,892 minutes that underscore his importance. Operating as the deepest midfielder in Arteta's system, he forms a formidable double pivot that allows Martin Ødegaard and the attacking stars to flourish. With elite ball retention and 75-rated passing ability, Zubimendi blends Spanish technical mastery with Premier League physicality. Valued at €80 million, he represents the evolution of the modern defensive midfielder—equally adept at disrupting opposition attacks and launching his own. Despite recent stuttering form (DWLDL in their last five), Zubimendi's composure remains the foundation upon which Arsenal's first title push in two decades is built.