One of Mikel Arteta’s key midfield targets has actually now claimed that Manchester City midfielder Rodri is better than Declan Rice.
Rice’s arrival in north London last summer proved a transformative move for Arteta’s side, who improved tenfold as a result.
Many imagined that Rice would arrive to continue his pursuit to be recognised as the world’s best number six, but Arteta had other ideas.
Rice shifted to a number eight role, which resulted in the England midfielder recording the best attacking numbers of his career in a single club season – seven goals and 10 assists.
Of course, that move has now left Arsenal chasing another midfield signing this number, likely a number six.
There’s a few candidates believed to be strong favourites of Arteta’s – namely Benfica’s Joao Neves and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Zubimendi in particular has to be considered a long-term target by this point, a player linked with Arsenal for several windows.
And whilst away with Spain at Euro 2024 right now, Zubimendi has just made a bold claim about Rodri.
Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi confident Rodri is the best midfielder in the world
Amid reports that Arsenal would like to sign £60m-rated Zubimendi, there have been some doubts regarding the midfielder’s willingness to change clubs.
Although, Arteta is a huge fan of Zubimendi, a player who has similar traits to himself.
And amid these Arsenal links, Zubimendi’s comments about Man City midfield powerhouse Rodri may cause some attention.
Talking ahead of Spain’s meeting with Italy this week, the midfielder indirectly named Rodri as a better player than Rice – who has to be considered one of his strongest competitors to his crown.
Speaking via Sport, Zubimendi said: “I am aware of where I am and where I come from. I am aware of the player in front of me [Rodri].
“It’s his turn to play and for me he is one of the best midfielders in the world. I am prepared for when he [Luis de la Fuente] chooses me.
“Since I arrived I have assumed my role. Rodri is the best in his position. I have to contribute from wherever I have to.”
Zubimendi wouldn’t be back up to anyone at Arsenal
Of course, from an Arsenal point of view they will simply be hoping that Zubimendi has the ambition to surpass Rodri whilst he’s still playing.
Should he ever move to north London he’d be in direct competition with Rodri in the Premier League, perhaps even attempting to beat him to the title.
And similarly, if he ever played alongside Rice for Arsenal, those at the club may also believe that he will soon change his pecking order too.
Either way, it will be fascinating to see which number six Arteta and Edu land this summer.
Although, if it is a number eight that is sought after all, then one performance at Euro 2024 on Monday certainly shouldn’t go unnoticed.
