Martin Zubimendi has revealed why he really rejected a transfer to Liverpool last summer
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Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad has been linked with Liverpool
Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad has been linked with Liverpool(Image: Angel Martinez - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Martin Zubimendi has admitted he was caught by surprise when Liverpool tried to sign him last summer and but did not find it difficult to reject the Reds. Arne Slot's side had agreed to pay the Real Sociedad midfielder’s release clause, only for the Spain international to U-turn at the 11th hour and reject their advances.
With Ryan Gravenberch instead shining as Liverpool’s number six this season, the Reds admittedly have few regrets regarding how their failed pursuit turned out.
But now Zubimendi, whose future in San Sebastian remains the subject of speculation and scrutiny despite his decision to stay put at his boyhood club last summer, has now opened up and explained why he really changed his mind as he conceded it was a 'selfish' decision to stay put.
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“I went on vacation, and it caught me by surprise,” he told El Diario Vasco. “It wasn’t something I had planned.
“I reacted when the situation arose. It was an uncomfortable time for me but I weighed the pros and cons and concluded that the best option was to stay.
“I don’t believe in 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunities. If you’re good and want to achieve something, it will come to you. There’s no need to rush.
“I looked at my personal progression, who I am, and the club’s project. I stayed because I knew this season would be important for me in the team, and I still had steps to take. It wasn’t that hard of a decision.
“There were many reasons for my decision, but I was selfish and thought about what was best for me. And that was staying.”