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Thierry Henry has had his say on Arsenal as his former side chase a first Premier League title since they last won it with the Frenchman in 2004
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has urged Martin Zubimendi's critics to remember the uncertainty over Rodri when he first arrived in the Premier League. The midfielder has been criticised in some quarters for his unconvincing performances in big matches for Mikel Arteta's side.
The 27-year-old arrived in north London from Real Sociedad on a five-year deal last summer. The Gunners beat competition from Real Madrid for his signature and paid slightly above his £51million release clause to avoid paying the full transfer fee upfront.
But the Spaniard has been unconvincing for Arteta's men - leading many to question whether Arsenal should look for a summer upgrade. Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali has been among the names linked as a possible replacement.
However, former Gunners striker Henry has defended the Basque midfielder. In an interview with Betway, he urges Zubimendi's critics to remember the questions initially raised over Manchester City star Rodri when he joined Pep Guardiola's team from Atletico Madrid in 2019.
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He said: "People like to talk a lot about everything and everyone. First it was Bukayo Saka, then [Martin] Odegaard, then [Viktor] Gyokeres, Chelsea, Cole Palmer, the referee etc.
"You can always raise issues. Zubimendi just arrived in the league, and when Rodri first arrived I remember people weren’t sure about him.
"People can say whatever they want, and rightly so. Everything is so analysed by everybody, including myself, but that’s how it is at the top.
"If you’re not at the top or the bottom, I’m not sure people will talk about you. I’ve been there, so embrace being criticised, and make sure that at the end you can show something that might prove people wrong."
Zubimendi was forced to withdraw from international duty last weekend after experiencing a knee issue with Spain. He played 13 minutes of La Roja's friendly clash against Serbia last Friday, but experienced 'discomfort' in his knee before leaving the squad to avoid any further risk.
It is currently unclear whether he will be fit enough to play a part in Arsenal's FA Cup quarter-final at Southampton on Saturday night (8pm BST). The Gunners then travel to Sporting in the first leg of their Champions League last eight clash three days later.
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