Spain national team midfielder Martín Zubimendi acknowledged his secondary role behind Rodri Hernández during an interview with RTVE, stating that he understands the context of competing against the world’s top players. Zubimendi returned to the starting lineup for Spain against Croatia following a period of limited action under head coach Luis de la Fuente.
Following victories against England and Croatia, head coach Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad maintains its positive momentum despite implementing team rotations. Zubimendi occupied Rodri’s position in the starting eleven against Croatia, proving the squad’s depth as the team’s operational rhythm remained unaffected. After the match against Croatia, Zubimendi shared his feelings with his teammates, stating, “Al acabar ya se lo dije a los compañeros, que es una gozada venir aquí y jugar con ellos.” He further noted that the manager’s trust in him has not diminished due to his reduced playing time at Arsenal, asserting, “Más que las palabras, los hechos también.”
Martín Zubimendi Evaluates His Role Behind Rodri
Speaking with RTVE, Zubimendi addressed the difficulty of accepting a substitute status while playing for the national team. “Obviamente que no gusta, porque a todos nos gusta ser protagonistas, pero cada uno tiene su pequeño ego y siempre quiere jugar,” Zubimendi explained, adding that individuals must make an effort to keep their feet on the ground. He quickly noted his awareness of the team’s high standard, adding: “No soy tonto y sé el contexto en el que estoy. Estoy en la mejor selección del mundo, con el mejor mediocentro del mundo por delante,” referencing Rodri Hernández. Zubimendi’s return to the starting XI against Croatia demonstrated the squad’s depth, as the team’s tactical structure remained stable despite the personnel change. Zubimendi has had to cope with an unfamiliar substitute role during the World Cup and other major matches, a departure from his usual status as a primary protagonist.
Praise for Lamine Yamal and Squad Dynamics
Beyond his own position, Zubimendi offered strong praise for teammate Lamine Yamal, with whom he has shared the pitch since their joint debut in a 7-1 victory against Georgia. Describing the 19-year-old forward, Zubimendi told RTVE that “Lamine está fuera de este planeta.” He emphasized Yamal’s maturity and composure under pressure: “Para mí, dentro de lo que parece, Lamine es un chico muy maduro… Cómo se echa el equipo a la espalda: se juega todas, las pide todas.” He noted that this distinct personality, combined with Yamal’s talent, is what sets him apart.
Historical Comparisons and Future Goals
As Spain’s current generation draws comparisons to the historic squads that won the 2008 and 2012 European Championships alongside the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Zubimendi maintained that the locker room avoids dwelling on milestones. When asked about matching those past achievements, he responded, “Ojalá que sí.”
