Ray Parlour has backed a £55million Arsenal signing as the “perfect replacement” for an outgoing midfielder, comparing him to the legendary Emmanuel Petit.
Martin Zubimendi joined the Gunners after they activated his release clause earlier in the summer from Spanish side Real Sociedad, following reports he had rejected a move to Liverpool last summer.
The 26-year-old arrives through the doors at the Emirates with significant pedigree, earning 19 caps for his native Spain during the absence of Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
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Known for playing in a deeper-lying position, similar to that occupied by outgoing Thomas Partey, the former Real Sociedad player slots straight into Mikel Arteta’s midfield alongside Declan Rice.
Getty | Martin Zubimendi became Arsenal’s first major signing of the summer, joining for a £60million feeParlour, who won three Premier League titles under Arsene Wenger, believes the Spaniard is the “perfect replacement” for the outgoing Partey.
“[Zubimendi] looks as though he has settled in really well. So good on the ball, he can pick and pass, is strong, and you can see how valuable he will be for the team,” he told NetBet Sports Betting.
“He is a perfect replacement for Partey and once he gets up and running he will dominate games from the middle of the park.”
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GETTY | Arsenal icon Ray Parlour believes Martin Zubimendi is the ‘perfect replacement’ for the departing Thomas Partey
When asked if he was similar to a player he played with during his time at the Gunners, the 52-year-old drew a remarkable comparison: “The only player that springs to mind who I played with is Emmanuel Petit. He is strong, can pick a pass and looks like he can dominate a game.
“Petit came into Arsenal and him and Vieira built up a formidable partnership in the centre of midfield in our 98 winning side.
“Zubimendi looks like he can and will manage the tempo of games, and with the guile and class of similar attributes to Petit.”
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Parlour continued to express his feelings that their depth in midfield was more complete, and the squad was generally ready for the Premier League season ahead.
“I think Arsenal have a good squad now. In midfield, there is a lot more depth to it this season. Quality all over the midfield for sure,” he continued.
“Holding players, we have now three in there, plus we know others can fit into that role too. Rice, [Martin] Odegaard, [Ethan] Nwaneri, [Noni] Madueke, [Christian] Norgaard, [Kai] Havertz, the depth is really good and quality likewise.”
The former defender concluded by praising youngster Max Dowman’s rise in the ranks at the Emirates.
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The 15-year-old has starred during Arsenal’s pre-season, looking bright on the ball and winning fouls across the park, including an impressive penalty.
Parlour believes that, despite the youngster bursting onto the scene and seeing significant minutes during their pre-season, he will remain shielded from first-team football for the upcoming season.
“[Dowman] is a strong lad for 15 years old. He has outstanding balance and looks like he has no fear and just plays his game,” Parlour said.
“He has a good family around him and another excellent young talent from Hale End Academy. I don’t think he will get much game time this coming season with him being so young.
“But, being part of the first team set up is a brilliant experience and let’s see what game time he gets in the Carabao Cup first.”