Ex-Arsenal striker Alan Smith believes Liverpool will be rueing their luck that Martin Zubimendi decided against moving to Anfield last year.

Speaking to BestBettingSites.co.uk, the Sky Sports pundit said that the Spanish international has had a strong start since moving to the Gunners from Real Sociedad for £60m:

“He’s done really well. He’s one of those players, doesn’t always catch the eye, but moves the ball on smoothly, keeps things ticking over. And I think tactically, he’s very astute. Eze’s another one that’s done ever so well, but Zubimendi’s played more games and he’s turning into a really good signing.”

“So maybe Liverpool would be looking at it and wishing they could have got hold of him. I don’t know the reasons for the way that didn’t turn out, but for Arsenal, it looks a really solid signing.”

Why did Zubimendi reject Liverpool?

Speaking about turning down the Reds earlier this month, the 26-year-old said that he simply didn’t think the move was right for him at the time.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta proved to be more successful at twisting his arm six months later. It was reported in January that Zubimendi would be joining the London club at the end of the campaign.

The decision benefited Gravenberch

If Zubimendi had joined Liverpool at the start of last season, there is a good chance that we would not have seen Ryan Gravenberch flourish into a top-class no.6.

Zubimendi would undoubtedly have been ahead of the Dutchman in the pecking order, but he grabbed his opportunity by the scruff of the neck, playing an integral role in helping Arne Slot’s side win the Premier League title.

It could be argued that Zubimendi’s U-turn has benefited both teams in the grand scheme of things.

Read more about the Liverpool First Team Squad for 2025/26 here