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Martin Zubimendi of Arsenal(Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Martin Zubimendi has explained why he controversially u-turned on his decision to sign for Liverpool last summer.

Zubimendi, who had helped Spain win Euro 2024 the previous month, verbally agreed a move to Anfield with the Reds prepared to trigger his £51million release clause until the player backtracked and instead opted to stay at Real Sociedad.

While Liverpool were understandably displeased at the change of heart, they opted not to reinforce their midfield options and went on to dominate the Premier League under new boss Arne Slot and claim a record-equalling 20th championship.

Zubimendi has subsequently signed for last season's leading Premier League also-ran Arsenal for £56m during the ongoing transfer window, and has reflected on rejecting the opportunity to move to Liverpool.

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“It wasn’t an easy time,” he says.

“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.”

Of moving to Arsenal, Zubimendi added: "It’s a different change for me.

Since the first day I’ve been here, I’ve noticed the greatness of this club, and I’m adapting.”

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Zubimendi has run the risk of further irking Liverpool supporters with comments about Arsenal's lack of success last season.

As well as finishing a whopping 10 points behind the Reds in the Premier League, the Gunners were beaten 3-1 on aggregate in the Champions League semi-final to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.

And Zubimendi believes Arsenal were the only team to properly threaten PSG, despite Liverpool having succumbed to the French side on penalties in the round of 16 having won in France.

Speaking during Arsenal's pre-season tour in Singapore, the Spaniard said: “The most important thing about this club is that they learn from previous seasons.

“The lessons they’ve learned from how last season ended will be key to getting even closer to this year’s targets.

“Football comes down to details, especially in the Champions League.

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“Arsenal were the only team who truly stood up to Paris Saint-Germain and they let it slip because of minor details.”


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