How does a passion for chess help Arsenal's new recruit train his football mindset?

Besides his talent on the pitch, few people know that Arsenal's new recruit Martin Zubimendi was once a promising young chess player.

Chess helps Zubimendi (left) practice his football thinking in controlling the midfield - Photo: Arsenal

Arsenal have welcomed a promising signing in the form of Martin Zubimendi, a central midfielder who is expected to become the new "brain" of the Gunners. Interestingly, in addition to his talent on the pitch, Zubimendi also possesses a special interest and impressive skills in chess - a passion that has shaped his footballing mindset.

At the age of 11, Zubimendi won the U12 chess championship of the province of Gipuzkoa, Spain. This not only showed his passion but also confirmed that he was a truly talented young player, with a tactical thinking ability that surpassed his peers.

In an interview on the Spanish Football Federation's website, Zubimendi revealed the profound influence of chess on his football philosophy.

He shared: "One of the greatest values that chess brings to me is concentration. This game requires you to control everything, just lose control a little bit and you will lose the key links."

Zubimendi won many chess tournaments as a child - Photo: screenshot

Zubimendi also makes an interesting and insightful comparison between these two seemingly different sports : "In both chess and football, the center is very important because that is where the play is oriented."

This explains why Zubimendi is highly regarded in the holding midfielder position – where he sets the tempo, intercepts the opposition’s attacks and launches attacks for his team. His role on the pitch is similar to that of a chess player controlling the center of the board to deploy strategies, control the game and lead the game.

Arsenal fans expect the player wearing the number 36 shirt to bring a breath of fresh air to the Gunners' midfield - Photo: Arsenal

With his sharp mind, analytical ability and exceptional concentration honed from chess, Martin Zubimendi promises to become a "master" of controlling Arsenal's midfield. He will bring stability, excellent reading of the game and intelligent ball handling.

TUAN LONG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/so-thich-co-vua-giup-tan-binh-arsenal-ren-tu-duy-choi-bong-the-nao-20250717082514872.htm