Arsen Zakharyan, the Russian midfielder, spoke about the thrill of stepping onto the field in Real Sociedad’s first match of the season. The moment was charged with anticipation as fans greeted his arrival and the midfielder absorbed the atmosphere of his new club. He expressed genuine appreciation for the warm reception he received from supporters and teammates alike, noting that settling in at a big club can be an exciting, transformative experience. Even though the moment was overwhelming, he emphasized that confidence and clarity would grow with time, and he remained committed to contributing to the squad in every possible way.
Looking back on his debut, Zakharyan said the day unfolded with momentum and preparation. He revealed that he had been told he would be involved before kick-off, but the exact minute of his entrance was a mystery until shortly before the whistle. That uncertainty led to a focused warm-up lasting roughly an hour, a routine designed to sharpen his readiness for competitive action. When the moment finally arrived, he stepped onto the field with a sense of readiness and purpose, ready to help his team push for a positive result and to integrate his playing style into the team’s evolving system.
In the season opener on August 25, Real Sociedad secured a goalless draw with Las Palmas, and Zakharyan entered the contest in the 75th minute. His late appearance signaled the coaching staff’s intent to gradually introduce him into La Liga action, balancing immediate impact with long-term acclimatization to Spanish football’s pace and tactical demands. The appearance marked a pivotal early chapter in what the club hopes will be a sustained period of growth for the midfielder within a club that values versatility and dynamism in its midfield engine.
Previously, on August 9, Real Sociedad confirmed the transfer of Arsen Zakharyan from Dynamo Moscow, with a contract extending through June 2029. The move drew interest from several European clubs during the summer of 2023, including Dutch heavyweights PSV, Ajax, and Feyenoord, reflecting the high expectations surrounding the player and the potential for a successful transition to Western European football. The transfer represented a significant step in Zakharyan’s career, positioning him within a competitive league known for developing young talents and showcasing technical proficiency in central midfield roles.
During his early appearances, Zakharyan faced strong competition in La Liga, with Real Sociedad’s fixtures often challenging opponents and tactical environments. In the club’s match against Celta, the team navigated a 1-1 result, a performance that provided a valuable learning curve for the newcomer as he acclimatized to the league’s tempo and the demands of top-level football in Spain. Observers noted his willingness to press, distribute, and adapt his movement off the ball, traits that align with the club’s strategic philosophy and its emphasis on dynamic, possession-driven football.
Former managers and analysts associated with Real Sociedad have already recognized Zakharyan’s potential, highlighting his technical skill, adaptability, and mental readiness to contribute in a competitive environment. Their assessments point to a trajectory that could see him becoming a key contributor in the near term, provided he continues to refine his decision-making, strengthens his physical resilience, and closely collaborates with teammates to fully realize his capabilities on the field. The early signs suggest a mature approach to training, a willingness to learn, and a readiness to compete at a high level as he builds a long-term impact with the club. (Attribution: club press materials and expert commentary)