Liverpool’s plans for bolstering their midfield have taken a turn after Martin Zubimendi’s unexpected decision to stay at Real Sociedad. Leaving the club to rely on their current squad rather than pursuing alternative targets.
Real Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil persuaded Zubimendi, the Spanish midfielder who seemed poised for an Anfield move. To remain at Anoeta following a last-minute intervention. This unexpected U-turn leaves Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, still awaiting his first signing for the club. Slot has emphasized that any new additions must clearly enhance the squad, a criteria Zubimendi met.
Although Liverpool has funds available, bolstered by Fabio Carvalho’s transfer to Brentford, the club is not rushing to sign a replacement. Instead, there is growing confidence that the current midfielders can step up to fill the gap.
Liverpool’s pre-season has been largely positive under Slot, with an unbeaten run following an initial loss to Preston in a behind-closed-doors friendly. Slot has experimented with various players in deeper midfield roles throughout the pre-season. Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch have all been tested in this position, demonstrating their adaptability and quality, despite some of them being more naturally suited to advanced roles.
In a recent 4-1 victory over Sevilla, Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, and Alexis Mac Allister formed the midfield trio. While a goalless draw with Las Palmas featured Endo, Curtis Jones, and Harvey Elliott in the center. Mac Allister, who returned late to pre-season after representing Argentina in the Copa America. Has experience playing as a defensive midfielder for his national team and could be deployed similarly at Liverpool.
Gravenberch, who had a mixed debut season at Liverpool, impressed Slot when playing in a deeper role during a pre-season win against Manchester United. Slot praised Gravenberch’s performance, indicating that the Dutchman could be a key option moving forward. While Endo remains a strong candidate for the deeper role, Szoboszlai, Jones, and Stefan Bajcetic. Who has returned from injury, are also viable options.
Slot has acknowledged the ongoing experimentation with his squad, stating, “I think we’ve seen mostly Wata Endo there or Ryan [Gravenberch]. And in a previous game even Dominik [Szoboszlai] was a bit lower. But I have quite a good idea which player suits there, at this moment in my opinion, best.”
Slot also noted the importance of finding the right combination, as the effectiveness of each player can depend on their chemistry with others. He added, “We are still in a situation where we are constantly evaluating which is the best team for us. Which is the best line-up.”
With Zubimendi off the table, Liverpool’s focus remains on maximizing the potential of their existing players. With Slot carefully considering how best to utilize his midfield resources for the upcoming season.
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