Martín Zubimendi

The summer of 2025 brought one of the more fascinating storylines in the Premier League transfer window, with Eberechi Eze opting to join Arsenal over Tottenham Hotspur, their North London rivals. While much of the discussion centred on the financials and rivalry narratives, this move's footballing significance lies far deeper....

After months of speculation, Arsenal looks on track to finally confirm the signing of Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi. The Gunners have now been Premier League runners-up three years in a row. The Spanish International could be key in driving Mikel Arteta’s side towards potential glory. He will share the...

Portugal lifted their fourth-ever trophy after beating Spain on penalties following an extra-time period that finished 2-2 in the 2024/2025 UEFA Nations League Final, at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany. Portugal resisted Spain’s attacking threats, limiting their strengths and countering their attempts intelligently to bring the game to penalties....

The Basque derby is going to take place on Sunday, 24 November, at the San Mamés Stadium between Athletic Club and Real Sociedad with a slight advantage for Athletic Bilbao if we consider the standings of La Liga since they are two points above Real Sociedad. At the same time,...

In the opening stages of this 2024/25 La Liga campaign, things have begun uncharacteristically for Imanol Alguacil and Real Sociedad. The Real Sociedad of previous years, who worked tirelessly to make Estadio San Mamés an impenetrable fortress, have vanished. The Basque club are yet to record a single point in their opening three...

In the summer of 2023, Liverpool’s midfield ranks underwent major changes. Captain Jordan Henderson and midfield colossus Fabinho both departed the club to join the ever-growing Saudi Pro League. Word of a midfield revamp had been circulating anyway, as some of the Reds’ key players were ageing, so Jürgen Klopp knew that...

Even in a transitional period, at least by their lofty standards, Spain enters Euro 2024 as one of the favourites. Featuring a blend of players in their final years with the squad, a strong presence of La Liga’s peak-aged players, and exciting youngsters, this Spanish team may not be the...

We're back with the #TFAArchives! Each day, Fintan O'Reilly gets deep into the 10,000 articles in the archive and pulls out a few relevant pieces based on the current news and events. While they still lead Croatia’s top flight, Željko Sopić’s HNK Rijeka have also now made it to the...

Good morning, analysis fans, and welcome to the #TFAFriday newsletter - full of analysis, scouting and tactics.  Fill up on your football knowledge - follow the Total Football Analysis page and be part of the squad that wants more than just a match report. As we head towards another January transfer window,...

As the La Liga campaign began, Real Sociedad, under the fifth year of Imanol Alguacil’s management, did not enjoy the start they would’ve wished for, with only one win in the first five games. One reason is that the team has to adapt to David Silva's retirement and play slightly differently...

Who Is Sergio Busquets? For 15 years, Sergio Busquets has been at the heart of Barcelona’s midfield and, by extension, at the heart of their successes and downfalls. Perhaps one of the most underappreciated players of his generation, Busquets has revolutionized the role of defensive midfielder by combining defensive prowess with technical...

Martin Zubimendi is one of the quickest risers in La Liga. He got into Real Sociedad’s first team after the COVID break, substituting for injured Asier Illarramendi, and has become a key player in a very short time. In this tactical analysis and Martin Zubimendi scout report, we will see...