Martin Zubimendi claims two transfers forced Liverpool rejection before Arsenal pep talk

Martin Zubimendi initially knocked back Liverpool but 12 months later joined Arsenal with Mikel Arteta proving to be a hugely influential figure in the summer transfer

Martin Zubimendi admits the loss of several star players from Real Sociedad in 2024 motivated him to stay in Spain for another year to “take that weight” and reject a move to Liverpool.

The Euro 2024 winner saw his stock rise last summer and he was heavily linked with a switch to Anfield, but ultimately remained in San Sebastian. He only remained with Sociedad for another year before he eventually made a move to the Premier League.

Zubimendi had starred in the Euro 2024 final win over England, where he came on as a half-time sub for Rodri. The winning goal was scored by his club team-mate Mikel Oyarzabal and it was Sociedad who provided more players for Spain than any other team – beating Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Robin Le Normand and Mikel Merino, two more men who were crucial, both left San Sebastian for Atletico Madrid and Arsenal respectively. It means that Sociedad were light of two of their major names and Zubimendi felt he couldn’t join the exodus despite the Liverpool offer.

He told the Guardian: “When any proposal comes, the first question has to be whether to stay at la Real and it wasn’t the right moment [to go]. I stayed and it was a hard season but I learned a lot. I wanted to step forward, take that weight after others went.”

READ MORE: Arsenal dressing room’s feelings on ‘problem’ behind Premier League title missesREAD MORE: Martin Zubimendi reveals why he really chose Arsenal move after Liverpool snub

It was Arsenal, who had a long-term interest in the player, who eventually won the race for his signature. Zubimendi moved to the Emirates for £60million and has admitted that he liked a lot about the Gunners – including the age profile of their squad and their style of play.

He confessed that Mikel Arteta can prove a hugely influential figure as he opened up on his decision: “I had watched Arsenal and I liked everything I saw, in terms of passion, youth, the feeling you got watching them. And when Mikel Arteta called me … Well, if you’ve ever spoken to him you’ll know that he can be very convincing.

“He’s mad about football, crazy about having everything under control, trying to get something from every little detail. He’s very clear on everything and the proposal he had was the best for me.”

Zubimendi’s decision to remain in Spain and knock back a move 12 months ago was in part owing to a pep talk from his manager. Then boss Imanol Alguacil had multiple meetings during which the manager leant on emotion.

He discussed the quality of life he currently experiences in San Sebastian. Zubimendi is a keen hiker and was reminder about his ideal life in the shadows of the Ulia Mountain range and how he would miss Basque cuisine on which he’s been raised.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.