Martin Zubimendi addressed the rumours surrounding his decision to reject a move to Liverpool during the summer transfer window. Speaking in the pre-match conference ahead of Real Sociedad’s clash against Anderlecht, Zubimendi made it clear that he has no regrets about staying with his boyhood club. The talented midfielder emphasized that his decision was rooted in his loyalty to Real Sociedad and his desire to continue developing at the club where he has deep connections.

Despite the interest from Liverpool, Zubimendi reaffirmed his commitment to the Basque club and expressed his contentment with the direction his career is taking at Real Sociedad. He acknowledged the allure of a move (h/t Mirror) to the Premier League but stressed that staying with Sociedad felt like the right choice for him at this stage of his career. The midfielder remains a key figure in the team and is focused on helping them succeed both domestically and in Europe this season.

Earning around £50,000 per week, Zubimendi has developed into one of La Liga’s standout midfielders. Liverpool seemed poised to lure him away from Spain during the summer transfer window, viewing him as a key addition to bolster their midfield.

However, despite the lucrative offer and the appeal of joining one of the Premier League’s top teams, Zubimendi chose to remain loyal to Real Sociedad, citing personal and professional reasons for his decision. His loyalty to the Basque club and the opportunity to further his development in a familiar environment were significant factors that kept him in Spain.

Why the Spaniard chose to stay put

During the summer transfer window, strong rumors circulated that Martin Zubimendi had agreed to join Liverpool, with reports suggesting that the Premier League club had submitted a bid for the midfielder. However, Zubimendi ultimately chose to remain at Real Sociedad, leading Liverpool to adjust their transfer strategy.

Ahead of Real Sociedad’s Europa League match against Anderlecht, Zubimendi addressed the speculation surrounding his decision to stay at the Basque club. He reaffirmed his commitment to Real Sociedad, stating that he feels “at home” at the club and that his focus remains on contributing to their success.

“My philosophy is to do what I feel at all times. So far, things have gone well for me. It is true that there was a lot of noise. I went through uncomfortable moments. The best thing for me was to stay here and I am happy and at peace. There is a lot of noise because of the press but in the end everything is easier than all that.”

He doubled down his decision, stating:

“I have no regrets at all. After just four or five games into the season, I can’t start second-guessing myself. My choice came from within, and I believed it was the right one. Results won’t change that. I see a lot of potential in this team. Just watching us train is enough to make me excited about the season ahead.”

Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, has acknowledged that the chase for Zubimendi is now over, especially with Ryan Gravenberch performing well in the midfield role that Zubimendi might have filled. Despite Liverpool’s decision to move on, Zubimendi’s talent continues to draw attention from several Premier League clubs, particularly Manchester City, who view him as an ideal long-term successor to Rodri.

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Liverpool’s decision to deploy Ryan Gravenberch after missing out on Martin Zubimendi has indeed proven to be a wise one. Gravenberch has thrived in his new deep-lying role, displaying immense maturity and adaptability that have greatly benefited the team. His ability to link defence and attack, control possession, and dictate the tempo from midfield has added a new dimension to Liverpool’s play.

Gravenberch’s tremendous start to the campaign in this No.6 role has justified the club’s decision to pivot away from Zubimendi, who chose to remain at Real Sociedad. Arne Slot’s tactical setup has allowed Gravenberch to flourish, and his performance has given the Reds the stability and balance they needed in midfield. The Dutchman’s seamless transition into the side has not only filled a critical position but also boosted Liverpool’s overall squad depth, positioning them well for both domestic and European challenges this season.