“Why I Said No to Liverpool”: Zubimendi Reveals the Real Reason Behind Arsenal Switch and Mikel Arteta’s Secret Call

Martin Zubimendi, the Spanish football star, has finally explained why he turned down a move to Liverpool and decided to join Arsenal instead. Speaking during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Singapore, the midfielder opened up about his big decision and why Mikel Arteta played a major role in his transfer. 

Zubimendi, who signed for Arsenal from Real Sociedad this summer in a £55 million deal, said he rejected Liverpool’s offer last year. At that time, many believed he would move to the Premier League, but he chose to stay in Spain. 

According to Zubimendi, the timing just wasn’t right. “It wasn’t an easy time,” he said. “I wanted to stay at La Real. When big offers come in, you think a lot. But I still had things to learn, and I believed staying was the right decision.” 

He also made it clear that he doesn’t believe in the idea of “once-in-a-lifetime” chances. In his words, he said, “I don’t believe in rushing things. If something is meant to happen, it will happen when the time is right.” 

Now that he’s at Arsenal, Zubimendi believes he made the best decision. He is already impressed with how the club operates and how much attention to detail Arteta gives to the team. 

One of the main reasons he chose Arsenal this year is because of a phone call from Mikel Arteta. Zubimendi and Arteta are both from San Sebastian in Spain’s Basque Country, and that personal connection helped build trust. 

Zubimendi said, “I don’t know what he saw in me, but I saw him as one of the top coaches in Europe. After talking to him, I knew I wanted to work with him.” 

Arteta has also been very clear about where he sees Zubimendi playing. He will be used as a No.6, playing deep in midfield and helping the team keep possession and balance. 

“I think I’m going to try new things,” Zubimendi said. “I’ll bring the passing and calmness I’m known for, but I know Arteta will ask for more.” 

Arsenal has had a plan to bring in players from Real Sociedad. Last year, they signed Mikel Merino, who used to play alongside Zubimendi. This summer, they finally completed the puzzle. 

Arteta said, “It was a well-organized plan. We knew what we wanted and waited for the right moment. Real Sociedad was great to work with, and everyone got what they wanted.” 

Liverpool, on the other hand, thought they had won the race for Zubimendi. But when he turned them down, it came as a big surprise. Now, with Arne Slot as their new manager, Liverpool will have to look elsewhere. 

Looking back, Zubimendi feels that staying another year in Spain helped him grow. “It gave me more confidence, and now I feel ready for this new challenge.” 

His arrival adds more strength to Arsenal’s midfield. With Thomas Partey facing injuries and Jorginho aging, Zubimendi could be the long-term solution. 

Fans are excited to see how he will fit into the team. Early signs from training sessions in Singapore show that he is adapting fast and already showing his passing quality. 

Zubimendi’s story is also inspiring. It shows that taking your time and making thoughtful decisions can lead to better outcomes in life and football. 

He didn’t choose the biggest offer or the first chance. Instead, he waited for the moment that felt right, and for the coach who believed in him deeply. 

At 26 years old, Zubimendi is now stepping onto the Premier League stage with high hopes and big dreams. And he’s doing it on his own terms. 

Mikel Arteta’s trust and vision clearly made the difference. And now Arsenal has a player who is not only talented but also mentally ready to rise. 

For Zubimendi, this is more than a transfer. It’s a fresh start with the right coach, at the right club, and at the right time.