Did Liverpool Just Miss an Incredible Signing in Arsenal's David Raya?

Martin Zubimendi's journey from Real Sociedad to Arsenal has been one of intrigue, especially regarding his brief flirtation with Liverpool. The highly-rated Spanish midfielder reportedly turned down a move to Anfield, which has led to speculation about what could have been for both clubs. Zubimendi's subsequent signing by Arsenal for £60 million has not only bolstered their squad but has also sparked conversations about his talent and potential impact in the Premier League.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Martin Zubimendi rejected a move to Liverpool before signing with Arsenal for £60 million.
• His decision to stay at Real Sociedad for another year raised eyebrows among fans and pundits.
• Zubimendi impressed in his Premier League debut despite battling illness.
• Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya praised Zubimendi's intelligence and team play.
• Jamie Carragher accused Mikel Arteta of 'stealing' Zubimendi from Liverpool.

The Rise of Martin Zubimendi

Martin Zubimendi, born on 2 January 1999, is a product of Real Sociedad's youth academy. He made his first-team debut in 2019, quickly establishing himself as an integral part of the squad. The 26-year-old midfielder has been pivotal in Sociedad's recent successes, showcasing his ability to control the game from the centre of the pitch.

His performances earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team, where he played a vital role in their Euro 2020 campaign, helping Spain secure the trophy. This exposure on the international stage further heightened his profile, leading to interest from top clubs across Europe, including Liverpool and Arsenal.

Rejected Move to Liverpool

Last summer, Zubimendi was on the verge of joining Liverpool. Reports indicated that he had agreed to terms but ultimately chose to remain at Sociedad for an additional year. This decision was influenced by his desire to continue developing in a familiar environment and to secure more game time.

His choice was met with disappointment by Liverpool fans and management, as they were keen to add his skills to their squad. However, Zubimendi's commitment to Sociedad demonstrated a level of professionalism and loyalty that is often admired in football.

Signing with Arsenal

In July 2023, Zubimendi finally made his move to the Premier League, signing with Arsenal for a reported £60 million. This transfer marked a significant investment by the club, indicating their ambition to compete at the highest level. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, saw Zubimendi as a key addition to strengthen their midfield.

Despite the pressure of a high transfer fee, Zubimendi made an immediate impact. His Premier League debut was marred by illness, but he quickly recovered and showcased his skills in a commanding performance against Leeds United, scoring twice and earning the Player of the Match award.

Impact on Arsenal

Zubimendi's arrival has provided Arsenal with a new dimension in midfield. His ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his defensive prowess, makes him a valuable asset. David Raya, Arsenal's goalkeeper and Zubimendi's teammate in the national squad, praised him for his intelligence and understanding of the game. Raya noted that Zubimendi's positioning both defensively and offensively is exceptional, which has impressed even those who have played alongside him internationally.

What Jamie Carragher Said

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher stirred the pot by suggesting that Mikel Arteta played a significant role in Zubimendi’s decision to join Arsenal instead of Liverpool. Carragher claimed that Arteta, being from the Basque region, may have influenced Zubimendi's choice, hinting at a potential pre-agreement between the player and Arsenal. He stated, “I’m convinced now that Mikel Arteta definitely stole him from Liverpool.”

This assertion highlights the competitive nature of football transfers, where managers often go to great lengths to secure their targets. Carragher's comments have sparked further debate among fans and analysts about the nature of player recruitment in the Premier League.

Arsenal's Recent Form

Following Zubimendi's arrival, Arsenal has shown promising form in the league. Despite a setback against title rivals Liverpool, they bounced back with a decisive 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, with Zubimendi playing a crucial role. Such performances are vital as Arsenal aim to reclaim their status among the elite clubs in English football.

As the season progresses, Zubimendi’s contributions will be pivotal in Arsenal's pursuit of silverware. His ability to maintain form and fitness will be crucial, especially with the added demands of Champions League football.

Looking Ahead

As Arsenal prepares for their first Champions League match of the season against Athletic Bilbao, all eyes will be on Zubimendi to see how he adapts to the pressures of European competition. The stakes are high, and his performances could significantly influence Arsenal's aspirations both domestically and in Europe.

In the context of the transfer market, Zubimendi's move has reignited discussions about how clubs navigate player recruitment and the importance of timing in securing top talent. It raises questions about what Liverpool could have achieved had they successfully signed Zubimendi, further intensifying the rivalry between these two Premier League giants.

Conclusion

Martin Zubimendi's career trajectory has taken an exciting turn with his move to Arsenal. As he establishes himself in the Premier League, the impact of his earlier decision to reject Liverpool will remain a topic of conversation among fans and pundits alike. With continued development and consistent performances, Zubimendi could become a key figure not only for Arsenal but also for the Spanish national team in the coming years.

As the Premier League season unfolds, will Zubimendi prove to be the signing that transforms Arsenal's fortunes? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing football story.

FAQs

Why did Martin Zubimendi reject Liverpool?

Martin Zubimendi rejected Liverpool to spend an additional year at Real Sociedad, prioritising his development and game time at his former club.

How much did Arsenal pay for Martin Zubimendi?

Arsenal signed Martin Zubimendi for a reported fee of £60 million from Real Sociedad in July 2023.

What has David Raya said about Zubimendi?

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya praised Zubimendi's intelligence, teamwork, and exceptional positioning, expressing surprise at his quality since joining the club.

What impact has Zubimendi had at Arsenal?

Zubimendi has made an immediate impact at Arsenal, scoring twice in a match against Leeds United and earning the Player of the Match award.

What are Jamie Carragher's comments regarding Zubimendi's transfer?

Jamie Carragher suggested that Mikel Arteta "stole" Zubimendi from Liverpool, claiming that the player had initially agreed to join Liverpool before opting to stay at Sociedad.