Martin Zubimendi finally reveals why he rejected Liverpool and then joined Arsenal 12 months later

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Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi rejected a move to Liverpool in the summer of 2024.

The Spain international was one of the best players in La Liga at the time, and he had been linked with several top clubs across the continent.

Arne Slot’s side triggered the midfielder’s release clause and felt that a deal would be done, but Zubimendi rejected Liverpool and stayed at Real Sociedad.

Then, he agreed to join Arsenal, and the move was completed earlier in this window.

Arsenal star Martin Zubimendi explains why he rejected Liverpool in 2024

Liverpool were really keen to sign Martin Zubimendi last year.

The Reds have one of the best recruitment teams in world football, and they do a lot of work on potential signings before they land them.

Zubimendi was viewed as a key target for Liverpool ahead of Slot’s first season at Anfield, and just when everything seemed to be going to plan, the player changed his mind.

The new Arsenal midfielder has now revealed what made him reject a move to Liverpool.

He told The Athletic: “It wasn’t an easy time. I wanted to stay at La Real, but when offers come in, you start thinking about your options.

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

Zubimendi then claimed that he only wanted to work with the best coaches if he left Sociedad, and in Mikel Arteta, he feels he has found the one.

He added: “I don’t know what he saw in me, but I saw him as one of the top coaches in Europe. 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.”

READ MORE: Martin Zubimendi reveals the one Arsenal player he was excited to see train, the feeling was mutual

Martin Zubimendi could be a game-changing signing for Arsenal

There isn’t much noise around the Zubimendi signing among Arsenal fans.

The excitement, perhaps, is at a low because many people knew for months that the Spaniard was joining, but Zubimendi could prove to be the best signing of the window.

The 26-year-old doesn’t just improve Arsenal’s midfield off the ball, but he is fantastic in possession as well. He has the ability to pick out a pass with either foot and makes the Gunners a lot more dangerous in central areas.

Zubimendi’s arrival will also give Declan Rice more freedom to attack, and that will make Arsenal significantly stronger.

All the hype at the moment is around Viktor Gyokeres signing for Arsenal, but fans should not forget about Zubimendi – he could be the one to help push the club over the line in the upcoming season.