Arsenal: Why Martin Zubimendi has been removed from Spain squad as statement issued

Midfielder becomes the latest Arsenal player to sustain a knock on international duty

Spain has revealed why Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi has withdrawn from international duty.

Zubimendi featured for Spain in their 3-0 friendly win over Serbia on Friday, replacing Manchester City’s Rodri for the final 13 minutes at the Estadio de la Ceramica .

However, the Gunners star will play no part against Egypt on Tuesday.

It has been confirmed by the Spanish federation that Zubimendi has been removed from Luis de la Fuente’s squad due to an issue with his knee and a decision has been made for him to return to Arsenal and avoid further damage.

A statement reads: “Martin Zubimendi has withdrawn from the Spanish national team camp due to discomfort in his right knee. To avoid any risk and to protect the player's health, he has been removed from the squad.

“Arsenal FC's medical staff have been informed of the situation.”

Zubimemdi, an arrival from Real Sociedad last summer, has been a key figure under Mikel Arteta this season and the Arsenal boss will be hopeful his compatriot can recover in time for the FA Cup quarter-final showdown against Southampton next weekend.

With that said, Zubimendi becomes the latest Gunners player to withdraw from international duty over the past 24 hours or so.

Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have both left the England camp ahead of the friendly against Japan , while Piero Hincapie has been allowed to leave the Ecuador squad earlier than expected.

Noni Madueke, however, sustained a knee injury during the Three Lions’ 1-1 draw with Uruguay and is now a major doubt for the aforementioned FA Cup tie at St Mary’s Stadium.

Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber - all of whom missed the Carabao Cup final through injury - did not join up with England, Norway and Netherlands respectively to focus on their recoveries at London Colney.