Jon Gorrotxategi has stepped into the shoes of Martin Zubimendi at Real Sociedad – could he be the next £60 million midfield orchestrator to emerge from the Basque region?

There’s growing excitement around Gorrotxategi as a potential breakout star from the Basque Country, and the evidence suggests that belief may be justified.

After months of intense competition among Manchester City, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Arsenal to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad – a race eventually won by the Gunners – attention has naturally shifted to his successor. Within the next couple of years, another major move may well be on the horizon for the player now occupying that pivotal role.

But is Gorrotxategi simply a clone of Zubimendi, or does his game bring something new? Here’s a detailed two-minute scout profile.

Name: Jon Gorrotxategi Position(s): Defensive Midfield, Central Midfield Age: 23 (Born September 2, 2002) Nationality: Spanish Height: 1.77m (5ft 10in) Preferred Foot: Right Current Club: Real Sociedad

Born in Eibar, Gorrotxategi began his football journey with the local youth teams before moving to San Sebastian at 15 to join Real Sociedad’s Sanse setup. A loan spell at Mirandes in the Segunda División during the 2024/25 campaign provided valuable experience before he returned to La Real, taking over Zubimendi’s No.4 shirt following the midfielder’s transfer to the Premier League.

The similarities between Gorrotxategi and Zubimendi are clear, prompting Barcelona to earmark him as a potential long-term midfield option. Known affectionately as “Gorrotxa,” he is a technically refined ‘pivote’ with a comparable physique, composed passing range, and an impressive aerial presence for his height. However, he differentiates himself through a slightly more cautious approach and a natural leadership streak that could develop further with maturity.

Passing and Technical Security: As expected from a Spanish No.6, Gorrotxategi excels in both short and long-range distribution. He is confident playing progressive passes but prioritises maintaining control, recycling possession prudently when needed.

Game Control and ‘Pausa’: Gorrotxategi demonstrates the ability to dictate tempo, accelerating play with a quick one-touch pass or slowing things down through calm ball retention. His resistance to pressing is outstanding, preferring safe, calculated returns when facing pressure.

Anticipation and Positional Awareness: Blessed with strong tactical understanding and spatial intelligence, Gorrotxategi performs well as either a single pivot or as part of a double midfield base. He frequently drops between centre-backs to aid build-up play and is adept at drifting into pockets of space to receive the ball.

Work Rate and Defensive Presence: Known for his tireless engine, Gorrotxategi covers ground relentlessly at Anoeta. His tackling is sharp and precise, combining technical timing with an instinctive ability to disrupt opposition play.

Leadership: Having captained youth teams, Gorrotxategi has showcased strong organisational and motivational skills. Though still early in his senior career, his composure and vocal direction in front of the backline highlight his growing authority.

Physical Attributes: Standing 5ft 10in tall, Gorrotxategi competes effectively despite not being the most imposing figure. He relies more on game intelligence than brute strength, and refining the darker arts of midfield play – in the mould of Sergio Busquets – could enhance his defensive craft.

Goal Contributions: Similar to Zubimendi’s time in San Sebastian, Gorrotxategi’s impact in the attacking third remains limited. Developing a knack for late box arrivals or timing long-range shots could add an extra dimension to his game.

Use of Weaker Foot and Risk Profile: Gorrotxategi tends to favour his right foot, often avoiding high-risk plays on his weaker side. While his caution ensures control, a touch more adventurousness and confidence on his left could make his play less predictable and more dynamic.

While he is yet to earn a senior cap for Spain, Gorrotxategi represented the Basque Country in a friendly against Palestine last November. Competition for midfield roles at the national level is fierce, but with Rodri’s fitness issues and Luis de la Fuente’s preference for like-for-like replacements, Gorrotxategi could soon find himself in contention for Euro 2028 selection. Though just 23, he is viewed as a long-term project whose peak years are likely still a few seasons away.