Wed Oct 02 18:58:20 UTC 2024: ## Real Sociedad Star Zubimendi Sticks by Decision to Reject Liverpool Move Despite Rough Start

**San Sebastian, Spain** – Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has doubled down on his decision to reject a move to Liverpool in the summer, despite his side’s disappointing start to the season.

Zubimendi was the target of a £52 million bid from the Reds and initially committed to joining. However, Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil convinced him to stay in San Sebastian, highlighting the midfielder’s enjoyment of the local Basque cuisine and hiking trails.

Real Sociedad, who qualified for the Europa League last season, have struggled in the early stages of the new campaign, sitting 14th in La Liga with only two wins from eight games. They have also scored just six goals, fewer than bottom-placed Las Palmas.

Despite the team’s form, Zubimendi maintains he made the right choice: “My philosophy is to do at home at all times what comes from within,” he said. “I went through uncomfortable moments. The best thing for me was to stay here and I am happy and at peace. Because of the press there is a lot of noise but in the end everything is easier than all that.”

He added, “Of course I don’t regret it, I can’t think that after four or five games at the start of the season. I made my decision from within, I thought it was the best thing to do, the results don’t affect me. I see the potential in this team, you just have to watch us train and I’m excited about having a good season.”

Zubimendi’s comments come after Real Sociedad secured their second win of the season with a 3-0 victory over Valencia on Saturday.

Rumors have emerged in Spain suggesting Zubimendi might request a return to Liverpool in January. However, these reports are based on unnamed “English media” sources, and their veracity remains questionable.

Meanwhile, Liverpool seem to have found an internal solution to their defensive midfield concerns. Ryan Gravenberch, acquired from Bayern Munich last summer, has impressed in his new defensive role after operating primarily as a box-to-box midfielder under Jurgen Klopp.

Read More