This summer, Real Madrid opted not to sign a midfielder despite the consecutive departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. This decision has sparked considerable debate, as the club believed they had the necessary talent to adapt to a new midfield dynamic. However, recent reports indicate that securing a midfielder has become a top priority for the upcoming summer.
Los Blancos showed interest in Kees Smit and Adam Wharton but ultimately chose not to pursue either player. The Dutch prospect remains on their radar, while then-manager Xabi Alonso preferred to pursue Martin Zubimendi. Meanwhile, the Real Sociedad midfielder had already agreed to a €70m move to Arsenal, although some observers in Spain still consider him the ideal fit for Real Madrid.
Zubimendi Addresses Missing Link Discussion
After Arsenal’s success in reaching the Carabao Cup final with a 4-2 aggregate victory over Chelsea, the topic of Zubimendi’s potential move to Real Madrid was raised. He responded, “I don’t think so. Madrid has more than enough players to do well. No way, no way,” during an interview with Cadena SER.
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Zubimendi Discusses Merino’s Injury: ‘He’ll Do Everything to Make the World Cup’
Zubimendi is vying for a starting position on Spain’s World Cup roster, alongside teammate Mikel Merino, who has been sidelined due to a stress fracture in his shin and may miss the tournament. Nonetheless, Merino aims to return before the season’s end.
“He’s in pain but is a very professional player who takes care of himself and always prioritizes the club’s best interests. I know he feels deeply affected, but his injury’s impact on the team is significant,” commented Zubimendi regarding his fellow midfielder.
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“He seems to be doing alright, but everyone deals with things differently when they go home. I understand it might be more challenging than it appears. He’ll do everything possible to make it back, and if not, it would be a real disappointment. We’ll have to wait and see.”
Both Merino and Zubimendi have been in excellent form for Spain lately, pushing to earn starting positions ahead of Fabian Ruiz and Rodri Hernandez in Luis de la Fuente’s line-up. The national team’s manager faces a difficult decision, given the recent performances of the midfield trio, with none—Fabian, Dani Olmo, or Rodri—having an entirely smooth ride lately.