Arsen Zakharyan, a midfielder who has pulled on both Russia and Real Sociedad colors, speaks openly about where his loyalties lie and how he sees himself in a world of shifting national identities. In remarks cited by Mundo Deportivo, he explains the tug between roots and career milestones, offering a candid snapshot of a player whose sense of self spans birthplace, ethnicity, and professional ambition.
When asked whom he identifies with more, he answers with honesty. He was born in Russia and achieved much there, so a Russian identity sits at the core of his self-conception. Yet he also carries Armenian roots, which adds another layer to his sense of belonging. In his words, he envisions himself as both Russian and Armenian, a dual identity shaped by family heritage and his journey through football on the world stage.
Zakharyan’s story begins in Samara, where he emerged from the Russian football development system. His first call-ups to the Russian national team arrived in 2021, and over the following years he built a growing reputation with eight appearances for the national side. His distinctive style—dynamic ball work, precise vision, and clever awareness in tight spaces—became his calling card as he transitioned from domestic leagues to the broader international arena while staying connected to his origins and professional growth.
Real Sociedad announced the transfer of Zakharyan on August 19, 2023, a move that shifted the trajectory of his club career. The contract through June 2029 signaled the club’s commitment to integrating a midfield talent with a knack for tempo, space, and creative distribution. His La Liga debut came in the 75th minute against Las Palmas on August 25, marking a fresh chapter in his European journey. In his first season with the Basque club, he appeared in 21 league matches, contributing in a way that emphasized his influence on play even when not always in the spotlight. The team’s sixth-place standing in the league at that time provided a backdrop to his evolving role within the squad, illustrating how a midseason transition can translate into sustained impact across a full season.
October 24 brought another milestone as Zakharyan made his Real Sociedad debut in the Champions League against Benfica, a moment that positioned him among players competing at the highest level of European club football. The experience of stepping onto the grandest stage against formidable European opponents accelerates growth, sharpens decision making under pressure, and broadens tactical understanding when facing diverse styles of play.
Reflecting on his broader career arc, Zakharyan has discussed social and civic commitments, including his thoughts on public service matters. These conversations add a human dimension to the public persona of a modern athlete, showing how responsibilities and expectations that accompany professional sport intersect with personal beliefs and national identity. His willingness to engage in discussions about background and roles beyond the pitch helps fans gain insight into the human side of a player who operates under global scrutiny.
Beyond club and country duties, Zakharyan’s journey resonates with many young players navigating dual identities or multiple cultural affiliations. His story underscores how personal heritage, birthplace, and career opportunities influence a player’s sense of belonging and shape how fans perceive allegiance on the field. In a sport where national teams often become symbols of national pride, his nuanced perspective serves as a reminder that identity can be layered and multifaceted, reflecting a broader reality for athletes in an interconnected world.