Luis de la Fuente calls Arsenal star 'second best in the world' after World Cup win

Martin Zubimendi is the second-best midfielder in the world behind Rodri, says Luis de la Fuente (Getty)

Luis de la Fuente believes Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi is the second-best midfielder in the world behind Rodri following Spain’s World Cup success.

Rodri captained Spain to victory over Argentina in the World Cup final last weekend and also beat Lionel Messi to win the Golden Ball, which is awarded to the best player in the tournament.

Zubimendi, meanwhile, made just one substitute appearance during the World Cup as he replaced Rodri in the first half of extra time in last Sunday’s final.

But despite his lack of minutes during Spain’s World Cup campaign, De la Fuente is keen to stress the importance of the Arsenal midfielder in his squad.

In an interview with TVE, De la Fuente was asked about those who doubted Rodri’s impact for Spain before the start of the World Cup and made a point of referencing Zubimendi in his response.

‘With all due respect, and I don’t mean to offend anyone, I said that doubting Rodri was an insult to football intelligence, obviously,’ De la Fuente replied.

‘He’s the best player in the world in his position, knowing that we have Martin Zubimendi behind him, who is also another great player, surely the second best in the world.

‘But we knew we had to follow a process and the deadlines we had set. He improved game by game, and the fact is that Rodri, even at 50 per cent, is better than many other players.’

Martin Zubimendi with his Arsenal teammates Mikel Merino and David Raya after the World Cup final (FIFA via Getty)

De La Fuente was also asked about the violent scenes sparked by Argentina’s players and coaching staff after the full-time whistle.

‘At the time of those events, I didn’t realise it. It all happened very quickly,’ De la Fuente said.

‘But, in any case, that is intolerable, unacceptable, and cannot be allowed. There are footballers of that calibre whom I have praised, and they have a fantastic coach who surely suffered just as much as we did seeing those reactions.

‘It’s not tolerable, and what I do think should be highlighted is our behaviour. Faced with that type of aggression, our players always maintained the composure and attitude of good sportsmen and great footballers.’

Luis de la Fuente says being Spain’s head coach is ‘the greatest honour’ (AFP via Getty)

De la Fuente also insists he would be willing to remain as Spain’s head coach for the 2030 World Cup, which will be held in Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

‘Am I fully aware of what I’ve achieved? No, no, I’m sure I’m not yet,’ De la Fuente said.