Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has admitted he had to be "selfish" in his decision to reject Liverpool in the summer transfer window.
Zubimendi appeared to be on the verge of a summer move to Anfield in the summer after helping Spain achieve glory at Euro 2024 in Germany.
Liverpool had reportedly agreed to pay Zubimendi's £51m release clause, only for the player to reject the move in favour of staying at Real Sociedad.
Zubimendi has remained a key part of the Real Sociedad side, having started 16 of the club's 17 La Liga matches, chipping in with one goal and two assists.
The 25-year-old has also taken on greater responsibility in the Spain squad in the absence of Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is currently sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
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Zubimendi reveals truth behind Liverpool rejection
Zubimendi has now revealed the reason behind his decision to turn down a move to Liverpool in the summer transfer window.
"I went on vacation, and it caught me by surprise," Zubimendi told El Diario Vasco. "It wasn't something I had planned. I reacted when the situation arose. It was an uncomfortable time for me but I weighed the pros and cons and concluded that the best option was to stay.
"I don't believe in 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunities. If you're good and want to achieve something, it will come to you. There's no need to rush.
"I looked at my personal progression, who I am, and the club's project. I stayed because I knew this season would be important for me in the team, and I still had steps to take. It wasn't that hard of a decision.
"There were many reasons for my decision, but I was selfish and thought about what was best for me. And that was staying."
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Could a Premier League move still be on the cards?
Although he opted to stay put in the summer, there has been some speculation suggesting Zubimendi could be open to a transfer in the new year.
Liverpool continue to be linked with the player's signature, while Premier League champions Man City have also been credited with an interest.
However, it is understood that Pep Guardiola's side have no plans to sign the Real Sociedad midfielder in the January transfer window.
From Real Sociedad's perspective, they will be reluctant to lose a player of Zubimendi's quality and importance at the midway point of the season.
As a result, it seems unlikely that the 25-year-old will depart in January, although a future move to the Premier League cannot be ruled out.
