From Anfield to Emirates Stadium: Subimedi s rejection of the truth and unfinished grudges of Liverpool

Last summer, Liverpool's efforts to pursue Martin Subimedi were a carefully planned transfer action, and in many ways, this action is a model. The club locked in the target and took action quickly in the early stages, as if they had mastered the key to success. Over time, Liverpool's top executives are confident that the deal is only a matter of time. However, something unexpected happened: In the last moment, Subimedi made a shocking decision—he publicly changed his mind, a decision that not only shocked the fans, but also caught Anfield’s management off guard.

In an interview with The Athletic, Subimedi talked for the first time about his decision to reject Liverpool's mental journey. “That time wasn’t easy for me,” he recalled. "I wanted to stay at Real Sociedad at that time, but when I received offers from other clubs, I couldn't help but start weighing the options. The first question I faced was whether I was really ready to leave, and at that time I thought leaving was not the most suitable time. I felt that I could get more opportunities at Real Sociedad, which gave me more room to grow, so staying at the team became the best choice."

These words undoubtedly reminded Liverpool's transfer leaders Edwards and Richard Hughes: football is ultimately a highly personal sport. Although the club's plans seem perfect and lobbying is quite convincing, whether players are emotionally, psychologically, and professionally, is not guaranteed by any spreadsheet or scout report.

However, Subimedi's transfer did not come to an end. Although he initially chose to stay, he moved to Arsenal soon after, a decision that attracted widespread attention. Looking back at the time, his decision to refuse to leave the Basque Country now seems to be a more carefully considered career development option. Joining Arsenal, the team that competes directly with Liverpool for the championship, adds a new layer of conflict to this already subtle emotional story.

For Liverpool, watching Subimedi appear on the court in Arsenal's jersey, rather than Liverpool's red jersey, is undoubtedly a sting. The midfielder is considered the core solution for Liverpool's back midfielder position, not just a replacement. His calm ball business, calmness on the court and a calm personality that he can maintain no matter how much pressure makes him an ideal candidate for Slott's existing tactical system.

However, the football world is often unexpected. A rejected transfer can sometimes unexpectedly open a new door for the team. The vacancy that Subimedi failed to join is the opportunity for Herafenberg to rise. The Dutch player, who was originally transformed into a defensive midfielder, has gradually become one of the best players of the season. With his outstanding athleticism and skill level, he played a key role in Liverpool's championship journey. Slott's decision to adjust Heraffenberg's position now seems to be a successful strategic move.

Liverpool did not sink into the shadow after losing Subimedi, but quickly walked out of the shadow. Despite the regrets, the team reorganized around new opportunities rather than over-indulging in past misses. Although Subimedi's choice seemed right at the time, today's Merseyside fans are proud of Liverpool's progress and success, proving that the team can still flourish without him.

For Liverpool fans, they are undoubtedly angry at the direction of the transfer. Subimedi seemed close to becoming a member of Liverpool at the time, but withdrew at the last moment and moved to Arsenal less than a year later. The so-called explanation that he "was not ready last summer" seems unconvincing. Time is important, but the choice of loyalty and personal intention also has a profound impact on fans’ perceptions of players.

However, although some fans were angry, some calm fans gradually accepted the reality. Herafenberg's rapid rise greatly alleviated the pain of losing Subimedi. Heraffenberg's balance, driving force and calm performance in the midfield position behind the drag-back made Subimedi's departure no longer a prominent regret, but a turning point. Today, Heraffenberg is undoubtedly one of the future cores of Liverpool's midfielder.

Nevertheless, that kind of unsolved "old account" still exists. Whenever Arsenal plays against Liverpool away, Subimedi should probably be ready to welcome the deafening "welcome" from Anfield fans. This welcome is probably not a sound of applause, but a strong protest and confrontation. Liverpool fans will not easily forget his betrayal. Although the team has made an impressive move forward on the court, the infinite reverie about "if it was" will always leave a trace that is indelible.