Martin Zubimendi should be worried after hearing Arteta’s Arsenal lineup comments

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · Pain in the Arsenal ↗

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has indicated that performance is a key factor in his team selection, which may be concerning for Martin Zubimendi who has limited playing time. Arteta mentioned that 'performing' and 'helping the team to win' are main reasons for choosing players. Zubimendi has mostly played in the Carabao Cup this season. Arteta has consistently chosen a midfield lineup featuring Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and either Bruno Guimaraes or Mikel Merino.

Arteta praised Zubimendi, describing him as 'a very important player' and 'an unbelievable player for us', but his comments on performance may suggest that Zubimendi hasn't met the required level. Arteta also mentioned that Zubimendi has been unlucky with injuries, including issues with his ankle and nose. The manager emphasized that everyone needs to be ready to play and that everyone will have chances.

Zubimendi's situation is similar to Mikel Merino's, as both have limited starts, but Merino has started in the Champions League and Premier League. The emergence of Lewis-Skelly as a midfield option may further reduce Zubimendi's role, potentially limiting him to being a squad player on the bench. Arteta's comments on performance may indicate that he trusts other midfielders more than Zubimendi at the moment.