Martin Zubimendi, the Real Sociedad midfielder who was close to joining Liverpool during the summer transfer window, has finally addressed the failed move to England. There had been strong indications that the deal was on the verge of completion, with Liverpool confident that Zubimendi would make the switch to the Premier League. However, both the player and Real Sociedad ultimately decided against the transfer, with Zubimendi citing his deep connection to the club where he has spent his entire career.
Ahead of Real Sociedad’s upcoming Europa League fixture against Anderlecht, Zubimendi was asked if he had any regrets about not moving to Liverpool, one of the most prominent clubs in England. In his response, the Spanish international made it clear that he has no regrets about his decision. He expressed his happiness in remaining in Donostia-San Sebastian, even though he passed up a chance to play for a top Premier League team.
Real Sociedad has struggled in the early part of the La Liga season, sitting 14th in the table with only two victories from their opening eight matches. Despite the team’s challenges, Zubimendi has been a constant presence in the lineup, starting every game. He also scored a goal in the first match of the season against Rayo Vallecano, a game that ended in a draw.
For Liverpool, acquiring a defensive midfielder like Zubimendi had been a key priority for their new manager, Arne Slot. Slot, who took over the reins after Jurgen Klopp’s departure, was keen to strengthen the midfield as he faced uncertainty over who would serve as the team’s main defensive midfielder. Despite the failed move for Zubimendi, Liverpool has found success through the performances of 22-year-old Ryan Gravenberch, who has stepped up impressively in his role.
Gravenberch has been a revelation for Liverpool this season, starting in seven of their eight Premier League matches and playing a crucial role in all five of their league victories. His standout performances have earned him two ‘Man of the Match’ awards—first in the 3-1 Champions League win over AC Milan and again in Liverpool’s recent 2-1 win against Wolves. These displays have pleased not only manager Arne Slot but also the club’s board and his teammates, especially after a difficult first season under Klopp, during which Gravenberch struggled for regular playing time.
As for Real Sociedad, they now turn their attention to their Europa League clash against Anderlecht. The team is currently 16th in their group after a 1-1 draw with Ligue 1 side Nice. Meanwhile, Arne Slot is determined to lead Liverpool to Champions League success, following the team’s failure to qualify for the competition in the 2022/23 season, when they finished fifth under Klopp. Liverpool’s last Champions League campaign ended in a heavy defeat, as they were knocked out by Real Madrid with a 6-2 loss on aggregate.