Manchester United legends Paul Scholes and Gary Neville have publicly disagreed over Arsenal's first summer signing, Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who is set to join the North London club in a £51 million transfer.
Speaking on the Overlap, former England midfielder Scholes questioned the necessity of the transfer, describing it as "pointless" and expressing doubts about Zubimendi's suitability for English football.
"What hole is Martin Zubimendi going to fill? I don't see a hole there. I think Declan Rice can do that role [defensive midfielder]," Scholes stated. He further revealed his skepticism based on personal observation: "I saw Zubimendi against United for Sociedad and I wasn't impressed."
In stark contrast, Neville strongly disagreed with his former teammate's assessment, expressing surprise at Scholes' comments and highlighting what he perceives as a significant gap in Arsenal's midfield.
"I'm really surprised you say that. I genuinely don't believe Rice or Partey are anywhere near as good at receiving the ball as some of the other midfielders in the Premier League," the former England full-back argued.
Neville elaborated on Arsenal's midfield deficiencies: "I don't think [Rice and Partey] have got anyone who can control a football match properly in the top games. I think they really struggle with that. I think Jorginho is the best of them. I'm surprised you don't see that. They need someone to control the ball and keep it moving."
Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement with both Zubimendi and his current club to complete the transfer at the end of the season. Mikel Arteta's side will pay the player's £51 million release clause, with the Spanish midfielder expected to serve as a direct replacement for Jorginho, who is set to join Brazilian club Flamengo.
The contrasting opinions from two respected football figures highlight the ongoing debate about Arsenal's midfield composition as they continue to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League title.
