In a passionate segment on The Overlap, Manchester United legend Gary Neville expressed his surprise at Paul Scholes’ skepticism over Arsenal’s reported interest in Martin Zubimendi. With Jorginho‘s contract nearing its expiration and no signs of a renewal, Neville insists the Gunners urgently need a midfield conductor—and Zubimendi is the ideal fit.
“I’m surprised you say that, I’m really surprised you say that,” Neville told Scholes, reacting to his former teammate’s doubts about Zubimendi’s credentials. Scholes had questioned why Arsenal needed to chase the Real Sociedad star when they already have midfield stalwarts like Declan Rice and Thomas Partey.
However, Neville countered strongly, arguing that Arsenal lack a deep-lying playmaker with the composure and technical finesse to dictate tempo in high-stakes matches. “I genuinely don’t believe Rice or Partey are anywhere near as good at receiving the ball as some of the other midfielders in the Premier League,” he said. “I think Declan Rice is a brilliant player and Thomas Partey is a very good player, but I don’t think they’ve got anyone who can control a football match properly in the top games. I think they really struggle with that. I think Jorginho is the best of them. I’m surprised you don’t see that. They need someone to control the ball and keep it moving.”
While Neville sees Zubimendi as the solution to Arsenal’s midfield woes, he also acknowledges that Mikel Arteta’s squad needs reinforcements in other key areas. Chief among them is a prolific striker—someone capable of consistently delivering 25 or more goals a season. Arsenal’s current attacking options have lacked the clinical edge required to challenge for top honors.
Additionally, a dynamic winger is needed to take the load off Bukayo Saka, especially given the inconsistent form of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. For Arsenal to bridge the gap to their rivals, Neville believes that this summer’s transfer window could define their trajectory.
