Real Madrid: The Missed Opportunity for Zubimendi Explained

Real Madrid has made a definitive choice regarding one of the most debated transfer topics of the recent market: the potential signing of Martín Zubimendi. While coach Xabi Alonso viewed him as an intriguing option to bolster the midfield, the club ultimately opted against pursuing his acquisition. The Madrid hierarchy assessed that Zubimendi’s profile did not align with the requirements necessary to replace the influential Toni Kroos, who played a pivotal role in game construction and tempo control.

The interest in Zubimendi emerged during the summer transfer window, with Alonso seeking a player capable of stabilizing the midfield, recovering possession, and orchestrating play to enhance team fluidity. As reported by Defensa Central, Zubimendi, who developed at Real Sociedad and is now making waves at Arsenal, was seen as a serious candidate to strengthen this crucial area. His vision, positioning, and ability to dictate tempo seemed to meet Alonso’s identified needs.

Madrid’s Strategy and Tactical Needs

However, the club concluded that Zubimendi could not replicate Kroos’s unique skill set. The German midfielder brought invaluable experience and game intelligence, offering a level of control deemed essential for the central midfield role. Despite Zubimendi excelling in various aspects of play, the decision-makers at Real Madrid believed that he would not sufficiently impact collective gameplay to fill the void left by Kroos.

A Tactical Perspective on Zubimendi

Since his move to Arsenal, Zubimendi has emerged as a midfield leader in the Premier League, effectively dictating play and providing stability. Some analysts argue that he could have contributed significantly to Real Madrid’s transition from defense to attack. Nevertheless, the club remains committed to its strategic vision: waiting for a profile that better aligns with its tactical needs and medium-term objectives. This decision underscores a critical challenge for the season: achieving balance between creativity and defensive solidity.

Real Madrid aims to blend strong individual performances with cohesive team dynamics while ensuring that each recruitment fulfills a specific role within their tactical framework. The refusal to sign Zubimendi highlights a preference for thoughtful planning over hasty solutions that might not fit seamlessly into their system. As the 2024-2025 season progresses, the search for a midfielder capable of regulating play and supporting collective efforts remains paramount.

This decision regarding Zubimendi is more than just a transfer miss; it signals a clear intent from Real Madrid to build a robust and coherent squad that adheres to its high standards and identity.