Martin Zubimendi, speaks out about the £51 million Liverpool transfer collapse

Martin Zubimendi, a midfielder for Real Sociedad and Spain, was on track to join Liverpool this summer after the Reds triggered a release clause in his contract, which was worth just over £51 million. However, Zubimendi decided against the move and chose to stay at his current club.

Zubimendi has expressed no regrets about his decision, affirming his commitment to Real Sociedad and clarifying that he faced no pressure from friends or family. He told Marca, “No, no, my friends are clear that whatever I decide [for my future] will be the best. There is no pressure whatsoever.

Real Sociedad for me is my life, I think I have spent half my life there. A lot of what I am is part of la Real, it is my life. [Our goal to qualify for] Europe is clear. The higher the position, the better. We have to look for our best version and, above all, compete. To feel competitive, to be recognised and to be seen with personality.”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Zubimendi had declined the move but expressed confidence in the team’s remaining midfield options. Slot remarked, “I’ve said many times already that our squad is really strong and it’s not so easy to find players who can help us or improve the squad.

Zubimendi was one of them to be fair, but he decided not to come. We go forward with the ones we have. [Wataru] Endo did well in pre-season. We’re in a good place. [Sporting director] Richard [Hughes] is trying to strengthen the squad. Zubimendi decided not to come, we did every effort. If a player decides not to come then it’s obvious he’s not coming.”

Liverpool did not enhance their midfield this summer, with their only acquisition being Federico Chiesa from Juventus for £10 million. They also reached an agreement for Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who will officially join next summer.

Arsenal also showed interest in Zubimendi but ultimately signed his former Sociedad teammate, Mikel Merino, for an initial £28.4 million. Merino is sidelined for two months due to a shoulder injury.