The midfielder from San Sebastian decides not to accept the lucrative offer from the ‘Reds’, who were willing to pay his release clause. Martín Zubimendi remains with the Real Sociedad. Despite what seemed to be a foregone conclusion given the overwhelming offer from Liverpool, which led many to believe he would not stay with Real Sociedad, the Donostian midfielder has surprised the football world with a historic decision, almost unprecedented for the club.
It is highly unusual for a homegrown player to reject an offer from one of the most prominent football entities in Europe today in favor of staying with his lifelong club, especially when it involves significantly less money. Zubimendi has demonstrated a profound commitment to his colors, reflecting very positively on Real Sociedad.
Zubimendi had an enticing offer from Liverpool, which had met with him several times, showing their absolute intention to pay his release clause of €60 million to acquire him this summer. The financial proposal was more than double what he currently earns in San Sebastián. All he needed to do was accept, and the transfer would have been finalized. On the surface, the decision seemed straightforward for obvious reasons, but from the beginning, Zubimendi was uncertain because his intention was to remain with the club he holds dear. He is very comfortable with Real Sociedad both professionally and personally, being close to his community and living the life he desires.
These uncertainties, which were evident from his initial non-response, have culminated in a definitive rejection of Liverpool’s offer. Zubimendi does not wish to take the step of playing in the Premier League, which he has always admitted to liking, because he prefers to continue playing for Real Sociedad. The decision is final, according to information obtained by Diario AS from sources close to the situation. Although the club has not yet received formal confirmation that Zubimendi has turned down Liverpool, the Real Sociedad president, Jokin Aperribay, is well-informed about the matter and remains calm about the situation of the European champion with the national team.
