Russian footballer Arsen Zakharyan could face a delayed debut for Real Sociedad as La Liga continues to work through his registration. World Deportivo reports the registration has not yet been completed, keeping the 20-year-old midfielder unable to officially join the squad in league competition.
La Liga has not yet formalized Zakharyan as a Real Sociedad player, despite the club submitting the required paperwork on August 21. Real Sociedad officials are hopeful for a quick response, but no decision has arrived two days after the submission, underscoring the slow pace often seen in cross-border transfers.
World Deportivo notes that because Zakharyan hails from a non-European Union country, the documentation must meet additional, stringent criteria. This increases the volume of paperwork and can extend the registration timeline beyond standard transfers for players within the EU.
Meanwhile, Real Sociedad head coach Imanol Alguacil remains hopeful that Zakharyan can be included in the squad for the third round of the league season against Las Palmas. The match is scheduled for August 25 and will kick off at 20:30 Moscow time, a reminder of the global scheduling considerations clubs navigate in contemporary football.
Real Sociedad announced the move on August 19, confirming the transfer of Arsen Zakharyan from Dynamo Moscow. The midfielder agreed to a contract that runs through June 2029, signaling the club’s long-term plans for his development and impact in the squad.
Analysts suggest that Zakharyan’s transition to La Liga could bring a fresh dynamic to Real Sociedad’s midfield, blending Russian training with Spanish tactical nuances. The club’s strategy emphasizes integrating promising talents quickly while ensuring compliance with international transfer rules and permit requirements.
From a fans’ perspective in North America, the potential signing represents a significant attraction as Real Sociedad seeks to strengthen its lineup ahead of a competitive season. The development also highlights how top European clubs manage late-stage registrations and the balancing act between immediate competitive needs and regulatory processes.
As the registration process unfolds, supporters and pundits alike watch for updates on whether Zakharyan will be eligible to make his competitive debut in the upcoming fixtures. The situation illustrates the practical implications of non-EU transfers, including documentation, visas, and work permit considerations that can affect a player’s ability to participate in official matches.