Zubimendi: Liverpool offer came at the wrong time

Martin Zubimendi revealed his move to Liverpool in the 2024 summer transfer window fell through as it “wasn’t the right time”.

The midfielder joined Arsenal this summer in a reported £51m (€58.9m) move from Real Sociedad, following the journey of compatriot Mikel Merino, who joined the Gunners at the start of last season.

Zubimendi, who operates from a deeper position in the midfield, played 180 games in LaLiga.

While primarily more of a defensive player, he also chipped in with nine goals and six assists for La Real.

Liverpool were in advanced talks with the Basque club over Zubimendi ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, but he decided to stay in LaLiga for one more season.

Zubimendi felt La Real had more to offer than Liverpool at the time, though the prospect of working with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was too good to turn down.

“It wasn't an easy time for me because, I wanted to stay at Real, but when offers come in, you start thinking about your options,” said Zubimendi.

“The first question I had to answer was whether I wanted to leave Real, and it wasn't the right time. I felt that Real offered me more opportunities and that I still had a lot to learn, so staying at Real was the best decision for me.

“I don't know what he [Arteta] saw in me, but I saw him as one of the top coaches in Europe. At the end of the day, I wanted a quality coach when I left Real Sociedad.

“I think I've found him. In the few days I've been here, I've seen how meticulous he is about every aspect of the game, so I think he's the one.”

Liverpool did not suffer for missing out on Zubimendi last year, as they went on to win the Premier League title under Arne Slot.