Arsen Zakharyan, the Russian midfielder, made his first appearance for Real Sociedad when he came off the bench for Brais Méndez in the 75th minute against Las Palmas during the third round of the Spanish league. The moment marked a new chapter for the 20-year-old as he began integrating into his new club after the transfer from Dynamo Moscow earlier in the summer. Real Sociedad, seeking momentum this season, held a narrow position in the table as the campaign unfolded. Las Palmas, their opponent, were aiming to climb the standings as well in a tightly contested early phase of La Liga.
The transfer to Real Sociedad was officially announced on August 19, with Zakharyan signing a contract through June 2029. This six-year term underscored the club’s commitment to the young talent, who had been looked to as a long-term contributor in midfield. In his competitive debut for La Liga, Zakharyan joined the team as it prepared for a demanding schedule, having previously featured for Sociedad in the league’s most recent fixtures where the club had drawn 1-1 with Celta in a previous match of the season.
Across the current Russian Premier League campaign, Zakharyan had appeared in three matches, contributing one goal and one assist. His performance in Russia, combined with the move to a European top league, signaled a transition period as he adjusted to a different style of play and higher tempo, while expected to offer creativity and an offensive spark in Real Sociedad’s midfield rotation.
Opinions from pundits following the move highlighted a belief that the transfer made strategic sense for Zakharyan. One notable Italian journalist, Mikael Braga, stated that the deal represented a sound choice for the player, noting that Real Sociedad offered a platform where his talents could flourish in a competitive environment and in a league renowned for tactical discipline and development of young midfielders.