Real Madrid has shown problems in midfield throughout the season. The departure of Toni Kroos left a void that will be very difficult to fill, but the truth is that the team did not opt for any solution after the German’s departure. They went with what they had, but there was no player, not with the quality of the German midfielder, nor of the same caliber who could take over his duties. In recent months, there has been a lot of talk about Martin Zubimendi for next season, but the truth is that this possibility is fading, as everything indicates that the Real Sociedad player will be heading to the Premier League next season.
A problem in midfield
Whether due to injuries during the season or the departure of Toni Kroos at the end of last season, the truth is that Real Madrid has suffered greatly in midfield this season. With Aurélien Tchouaméni playing part of the season in defense due to injuries to Militao and the poor performance of Alaba after his return (and because it took so long to put their trust in Asencio), injuries to Camavinga and Ceballos, positional changes for Valverde due to Carvajal‘s injury, and the age of Modric are some of the factors that have left Real Madrid without a fixed and reliable midfield, perhaps the most important area of the pitch for bringing balance to the squad.
Real Madrid has been unable to either attack or defend with its midfield this season. In offensive tasks, it is difficult for any player to take control to string together plays and create superiority in attack. In defense, there is disorder, a lack of concepts or automatisms—which is logical if there is no midfield that has accumulated minutes playing together—which has caused the Whites to concede many goals. In the end, Ancelotti’s players have won games thanks to their individual talent, but it is difficult to remember a match in which the Whites won with ease.
It is clear that Real Madrid’s midfield needs changes, but the options are limited and Florentino Pérez does not seem to be very concerned about next season. There was speculation about Martin Zubimendi, but it seems that the Basque player will be leaving for the Premier League.
Zubimendi heads to Arsenal
The English press are reporting that Martin Zubimendi will become a new Arsenal player for next season. The player’s characteristics, a defensive midfielder with great offensive potential, made him an interesting option for Real Madrid. He is committed to defensive duties and has good ball control and vision, both for short and long passes. However, the wait has taken its toll. The player is reportedly committed to Arsenal and will follow in the footsteps of his former teammate, Mikel Merino, who has become one of the most important players in the English team.
Real Madrid’s options
Real Madrid are calm. They are still scouting the market but believe that, once the team is back to full strength, they have the squad to return to their best. They have no intention of making any crazy signings, but if a good opportunity arises, they will go for it. For now, they are confident in what they have and trust that the possible arrival of Xabi Alonso will help get the most out of the current squad, which they believe needs a few minor adjustments to get back among the best.
The truth is that Zubimendi could have been a good option for Real Madrid’s midfield, but it seems that the player already has his bags packed for London.