Zubimendi Released by Spain Amid Arsenal Injury Crisis

Martin Zubimendi has been released from the Spanish national team due to knee discomfort, as confirmed by the Royal Spanish Football Federation in a statement on Sunday. Zubimendi, who appeared as a substitute in Spain's 3-0 victory over Serbia on Friday, will miss the upcoming friendly against Egypt.

The 27-year-old Barcelona player has featured 44 times across competitions this season. This situation compounds the injury concerns for Arsenal, who are currently leading the Premier League and are in a tight title race.

Manager Mikel Arteta is facing significant challenges with nine first-team players sidelined during the international break, including Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Magalhaes, Leandro Trossard, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Noni Madueke, and Piero Hincapi. Spain opted to release Zubimendi immediately so he can begin rehabilitation with Arsenal's medical staff, who expect to assess the issue upon his arrival in London Colney.

The club hopes the injury will prove to be minor ahead of the league's resumption.