Spain coach calls Rodri best midfielder, Zubimendi second after World Cup win

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has named Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi as the world’s second-best midfielder, behind Manchester City’s Rodri, following Spain’s World Cup victory over Argentina. Rodri earned the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, having played a key role in the final despite reportedly being at only 50 percent fitness. Zubimendi, who featured as a substitute for Rodri in extra time of the final, was praised by De la Fuente as an exceptional player and the ideal backup.

This assessment matters to Nigerian football fans because it underscores the value of midfield depth and quality for international success. It shows that a player’s elite status can be affirmed by a coach’s trust even with limited minutes—a lesson for the Super Eagles as they evaluate their own midfield options ahead of upcoming competitions.

De la Fuente also condemned the violent conduct displayed by Argentina’s players and coaching staff after the match, calling it intolerable and unacceptable. For Nigerian audiences, the intelligence is clear: investing in top‑tier midfield talent while upholding sportsmanship is essential for competing at the sport’s highest level. Should Nigeria prioritize developing similar midfield depth and discipline to match the standards set by Spain’s World Cup‑winning squad?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/26/spain-coach-de-la-fuente-names-top-two-midfielders-currently/