Arsenal star reveals the truth behind £55m move and Liverpool interest | OneFootball

Arsenal Target Secures Dream Move After Liverpool Snub

Arsenal’s acquisition of Martin Zubimendi for a reported £55 million represents one of the more fascinating transfer reversals of recent memory. Just a year earlier the midfielder had turned down Liverpool, choosing to stay with Real Sociedad where he had developed since 2011. Reflecting on that decision he admitted, “When any proposal comes, the first question has to be whether to stay at la Real,” adding, “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.”

His patience proved strategic. Rather than chasing a move for the sake of it, he waited for the right fit. “I’ve always tried to choose the right time and I’m happy with how it happened in the end.”

Arteta’s Influence on Decision

While both Arsenal and Liverpool expressed concrete interest, it was Mikel Arteta’s personal intervention that swung the balance. Zubimendi had admired Arsenal’s style from afar but it was the conversation with the manager that became decisive. “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 said.

His admiration extended beyond surface appeal. “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.”

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Liverpool’s long-standing pursuit left many wondering why Zubimendi did not reconsider their interest. However the Spanish international appears to value environment and clarity over club stature. Arsenal offered a clearly defined role alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, something Liverpool could not guarantee during their midfield rebuild.

Strong Start in North London

On the pitch Zubimendi has already justified Arsenal’s investment. His composure in possession and tactical discipline have cemented his place in midfield, bringing balance to a unit that previously relied heavily on Rice. With Odegaard struggling for fitness his ability to dictate tempo has become even more valuable.

His form has also carried into international duty. Zubimendi started alongside fellow Arsenal team-mate Mikel Merino in Spain’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Georgia in Elche. Crystal Palace winger Yeremy Pino and Mikel Oyarzabal found the net after Liverpool’s Giorgi Mamardashvili had initially saved a penalty from Ferran Torres.

What It Means for Liverpool

Liverpool will view this as a missed opportunity. Their pursuit of a long-term defensive midfielder continues and Zubimendi’s seamless transition into the Premier League serves as a reminder of what might have been. Arsenal meanwhile have secured a player cut precisely to their tactical blueprint. Judging by early performances it could prove to be one of the most influential moves of the season.