Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has cleared the air regarding Martin Zubimendi’s decision to turn down a summer transfer to Liverpool.
The Spanish midfielder was linked with a move to Anfield during the transfer window, with Liverpool reportedly eyeing his €60 million (£50.6m) release clause.
However, despite the Reds’ interest, Zubimendi opted to remain at Sociedad.
Contrary to rumours suggesting Zubimendi stayed for a lucrative contract upgrade, Aperribay stated that no contract renewal discussions took place.
“There has been no conversation with Zubimendi to renew the contract,” he said. “There hasn’t been one now and there hasn’t been one before. He didn’t put any conditions on us.
“He understood the moment and knew that it was a market in which some players were already going to leave, and he understood that it was time to stay at Real Sociedad. He has not made it a condition for us to renew nor have we talked about it. The conversation with Martín was short and quick.”
Zubimendi’s decision to remain with Sociedad was based on his commitment to the club, where he has spent most of his career.
The 25-year-old recently expressed his loyalty, stating: “Real Sociedad for me is my life, I think I have spent half my life there.”
His connection to the club and his focus on helping Sociedad compete for European football played a significant role in his choice to stay.
It’s a respectable decision, really.
Gravenberch has a chance to show Liverpool don’t need Zubimendi
While Liverpool missed out on Zubimendi, Slot has moved Ryan Gravenberch into the no.6 role and he now has the opportunity to prove the club made the right choice.
The Dutch midfielder has already made waves during the international break, with clips of his impressive pass against Germany going viral, despite Xavi Simmons’ inability to convert it into a goal.
STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING AND ADMIRE THIS! 🥶🥶
This from Ryan Gravenberch is already the pass of the season. 🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/GSuaiQVZFa
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) September 12, 2024
Gravenberch’s vision and passing ability have sparked excitement, and this weekend’s match against Nottingham Forest presents a perfect stage for him to showcase his talents.
Playing in Liverpool’s no. 6 role, Gravenberch can further solidify his place in the squad by delivering another standout performance.
With Liverpool still refining their midfield setup after the summer transfer window, Gravenberch has the chance to prove that he can fill the gap left by Fabinho and offer the qualities needed in a deep-lying playmaker.
A strong showing against Nottingham Forest would reinforce the idea that Liverpool may not need a player like Zubimendi after all, as they might have already found their solution in Gravenberch.
The pressure is on for Gravenberch to step up, but if he continues to impress, he could make Liverpool fans forget all about the missed opportunity with Zubimendi.
