Why Zubimendi rejected Liverpool after breaking his word with Richard Hughes

Spain's midfielder #18 Martin Zubimendi addresses a press conference at the team base camp in Donaueschingen, on June 18, 2024, during the UEFA Euro 2024 football Championship. (Photo by LLUIS GENE / AFP) (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)

Liverpool’s hopes of landing Martin Zubimendi this summer have been dealt a fatal blow.

The Spaniard international has now gone back on his words to the Reds and sporting director Richard Hughes after reportedly indicating his desire for a move to Anfield.

Fabrizio Romano reports on X (formerly Twitter) that the Spaniard’s ‘unconditional love’ for Real Sociedad was a decisive factor. The footballer is now set remain with a potential new deal set to be signed.

Follow Empire of the Kop on Instagram (@empireofthekop) HERE

The key question now for the Merseysiders is where will the ongoing search for a No.6 take them next?

READ MORE: Paul Joyce clarifies Liverpool’s Zubimendi deadline as Real Sociedad issue cruel ultimatum

READ MORE: Local Real Sociedad journo drops intriguing Zubimendi update as player interviews axed

Bad timing for Arne Slot ahead of the 2024/25 season

We have to respect the player’s loyalty in an era of football where such a trait is becoming increasingly rare.

That said, we can’t ignore the obvious fact that this is far from ideal for Arne Slot after having likely been given assurances a top-class holding midfielder would be joining the side this summer.

There’s every chance our shortlist yields another talent capable of settling the fresh panic that has set in on social media. However, this is understandably concerning five days ahead of the start of the new season.

A brutal blow for Liverpool and our recruitment team. Though hopefully not a fatal one as far as our hopes of securing an exciting No.6 this summer are concerned.

More updates on our search for a holding midfielder as and when they come!

EOTK Close-up with John Welsh: ‘a local lad who lived his dream’ and Slot’s LFC predictions