Spain coach gives Arsenal positive update on the fitness of key player

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·2 October 2026

Spain coach gives Arsenal positive update on the fitness of key player

Martin Zubimendi appeared to suffer an injury during Spain’s match against Croatia after being substituted in the 72nd minute of the game.

The midfielder remains one of the most important players in the Spain team despite his lack of action for Arsenal and has often been a very important member of the Gunners’ team.

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At the Emirates, he has lost his place and even played at right back when he got a rare chance to start. However, that does not mean he is not an important player for Arsenal, with the Gunners resisting the urge to sell him in the last transfer window.

He was one of the stars Arsenal had to release for this international window, and he started Spain’s game against Croatia after sitting out the match against England.

Zubimendi raises Arsenal concerns

The game was a test of how ready Zubimendi was for action, and he passed, but when he was substituted, he appeared to be in poor shape. That was worrying for Arsenal, who have already lost some players during this international window.

The midfielder’s substitution raised concerns because of the importance he has to the Gunners, even though he has had limited opportunities at club level recently.

However, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has explained the midfielder’s situation. He said via Standard Sports:

“There was a moment when I got worried because he put his hand on the back of his leg, but he shook his head to say no [injury].

“When he came off, he told me that he has played a lot of matches without getting many minutes and that he was feeling some tightness in his calves.”

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Arsenal will hope for positive update

De la Fuente’s comments suggest that Zubimendi was experiencing tightness in his calves rather than confirming that he had suffered an injury.

That will provide some reassurance for Arsenal, particularly after the club has already dealt with injury concerns involving other players during the international break.

Zubimendi remains an important player for the Gunners despite his reduced involvement at the Emirates. Arsenal will now hope that the midfielder does not suffer any further problems and can return to domestic action without missing a significant period.

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