Martin Keown’s Unexpected Choice for Arsenal’s Player of the Season
As the Premier League enters its final stretch, Arsenal’s impressive form has set the stage for a thrilling title race. Following a commanding 3-0 victory against Sunderland, the Gunners find themselves in a strong position, leading the table by nine points. However, amidst discussions about standout performers, former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has made a surprising choice for the team’s player of the season, overlooking big names like Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhaes.
The Rise of Martin Zubimendi
Keown has highlighted Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal’s Spanish midfielder, as his pick for the season’s best player. This selection comes as a shock to many, given the exceptional contributions of Rice, who is arguably having the best season of his career, and the solid defensive performances from Gabriel. Yet, Keown’s rationale stems from Zubimendi’s understated but crucial role in the team’s midfield. He emphasized the importance of a strong midfield partnership in achieving championship success, drawing parallels to his own experiences with legendary duo Emmanuel Petit and Patrick Vieira.
Zubimendi’s influence has been pivotal this season, particularly in the recent match against Sunderland, where he opened the scoring with a stunning long-range strike. His ability to control the game and dictate the pace has not gone unnoticed by manager Mikel Arteta, who played a key role in convincing the midfielder to join Arsenal after he initially turned down a move to Liverpool.
Impact of Tactical Decisions
The Gunners’ tactical setup under Arteta has transformed the team into title contenders, and Zubimendi’s arrival has been a significant factor. His seamless integration into the squad has added depth and quality to the midfield, making it one of the most formidable in the league. Keown’s comments reflect a growing recognition of Zubimendi’s contributions, which have often flown under the radar amid the more celebrated performances of his teammates.
In the match against Sunderland, Zubimendi’s goal was complemented by a brace from Viktor Gyokeres, who continues to prove instrumental as a substitute. Gyokeres’ scoring prowess has been a key asset for Arsenal as they navigate a congested fixture list, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad. Arteta praised the impact of his substitutes, illustrating the importance of squad rotation during this crucial phase of the season.
Looking Ahead
With 13 games remaining, Arsenal’s aspirations for their first league title in over two decades are within reach. The nine-point advantage over nearest rivals Manchester City and Aston Villa underscores the team’s strong position. As the season progresses, the contributions of players like Zubimendi will be vital in maintaining this momentum. The blend of youth and experience in Arsenal’s squad, coupled with Arteta’s tactical acumen, sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the campaign.
As the football community continues to debate the standout performers of the season, Keown’s recognition of Zubimendi could signify a shift in how the contributions of unsung heroes are perceived. If Arsenal can sustain their current form and navigate the challenges ahead, they may well find themselves celebrating a long-awaited title, with Zubimendi playing a central role in that success.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research