Arsen Zakharyan, the Russian midfielder who joined Real Sociedad from Dinamo Moscow, marked a historic moment by making his first appearance in the Champions League following his transfer in August. This milestone was noted by sports outlets as a significant step in his international career, highlighting the teenager’s adaptation to elite European competition and the attention he has drawn across football circles.
On October 24, Real Sociedad secured a narrow 1-0 victory away against Benfica, with Bryce Mendez delivering the winning strike. Zakharyan entered the field in the 76th minute, stepping into the most prestigious club tournament in Europe for the first time as a senior player. The debut signaled not only personal progress for the young midfielder but also the strategic confidence shown by the Basque club as it competes for supremacy within its Champions League group.
Real Sociedad disclosed that the 20-year-old talent was brought into the squad on August 19, with his contract set to run through June 2029. The transfer connected a rising Russian international with a club that values youthful energy, versatility, and technical polish in midfield. Zakharyan’s arrival added a new dimension to Sociedad’s options in the middle of the park, where ball retention, quick decision-making, and forward progression are essential to the team’s style of play.
In the group standings, Real Sociedad led Group D with seven points, a tally matched by Inter Milan, while Red Bull Salzburg sat third on three points and Benfica trailed with no points. The early stage of the campaign has underscored the competitiveness of the group, with Sociedad leveraging homegrown and international talent to maintain the advantage. These results reflect the club’s strategic planning, depth, and ability to balance harsh travel schedules with high-intensity matches on multiple fronts, including domestic league commitments and European duties.
Looking ahead to the next round, Real Sociedad is scheduled to host Benfica at the Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastian, while Inter Milan will welcome Red Bull Salzburg. Both fixtures are set for November 8, presenting a crucial test for Sociedad as they seek to extend their lead in the group and secure a favorable position going into the knockout rounds. The schedule emphasizes the club’s ambition to advance deep into the competition, relying on a blend of established players and emerging talents to sustain momentum across a demanding calendar.
Earlier in his career, Zakharyan faced a pivotal crossroads, with choices that included pursuing a professional pathway outside of football before committing to the sport at a high level. His decision to pursue professional football has shaped his trajectory, allowing him to reach the European stage and contribute to Real Sociedad’s ambitions. This background adds depth to his on-field character, illustrating a young player who navigated early career decisions to reach the elite level and seize opportunities in Europe. The story of his development underscores the broader narrative of young talents rising through European leagues, adapting quickly to new teams, languages, and tactical systems under diverse coaching styles. (via Sports Express)