Jamie Carragher has expressed worries about Arsenal’s vulnerability, asserting that Mikel Arteta’s team’s deeper problems are reflected in Martin Zubimendi’s recent decline in form. He thinks the midfielder, who had a great start to his Arsenal career, is now “truly struggling.”
After joining from Real Sociedad in the summer, Zubimendi made an immediate impression and developed a strong rapport with Declan Rice. As Arsenal established a solid position at the top of the Premier League, his early influence helped them deal with the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.
He has already made over 50 appearances for club and country this season, but his workload has increased dramatically. Due to injuries elsewhere, Arteta has been forced to rely largely on the 27-year-old midfielder, suggesting that this heavy usage has had a negative impact.
During Arsenal’s loss to Bournemouth, he appeared to lose confidence as he found it difficult to handle intense pressing. He frequently stalled assaults and chose safer, less adventurous passes rather than effectively advancing play.
Carragher said that Arsenal’s rhythm was upset by this hesitation, which even led to goalkeeper David Raya playing a significant role in build-up play. He maintained that Bournemouth’s press left gaps that Arsenal did not exploit.
The veteran defender also made a negative comparison between Manchester City and Arsenal’s strategy, implying that Pep Guardiola’s team would take advantage of such circumstances more forcefully. He questioned whether Arsenal have the requisite attacking quality or just lacks confidence.
Zubimendi’s decision-making at crucial times, especially lost chances to make straightforward passes that may have relieved pressure, was the subject of additional criticism. According to Carragher, these decisions led to Arsenal’s disorganised play and aimless long balls.
He also emphasised the error that resulted in a throw-in and Bournemouth’s first goal. Carragher came to the conclusion that there is rising concern about Arsenal’s incapacity to handle game conditions.
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