Gennady Golubin, the representative for Real Sociedad’s Russian midfielder Arsen Zakharyan, stated that the club leadership has a constructive attitude toward the player and is prepared to allow him the necessary time to settle in. His comments were reported by Sports Express, highlighting a patient and supportive approach from the club as Zakharyan adjusts to a new league and team environment.
“The adaptation process takes time. Moving to another country, entering a different league, everything changes on and off the pitch. No one expects a swift transformation in a new setting,” Golubin explained. He added that the Spaniards emphasize realism: progress may be gradual, and the focus is on steady development rather than quick results. Such patience is seen as essential to helping the player reach his full potential in a challenging context far from home.
Zakharyan made the move to Real Sociedad from Dynamo Moscow in August 2023, agreeing to a six-year contract. The transfer fee reported was €13 million, underscoring the club’s long-term investment in the midfielder’s development and potential impact within the squad. The transition reflected a strategic decision by Real Sociedad to strengthen its midfield with a technically gifted player capable of contributing in different phases of the game.
The Russian international debuted for the club in a match against Las Palmas on August 25. While the initial expectation was for a seamless integration, Zakharyan faced a series of challenges that limited his rhythm during the season. A period marked by health issues, including a bout with the coronavirus, interrupted his preparations and match fitness. Despite these setbacks, the midfielder continued to work toward consistent involvement with the first team, aiming to deliver performances that would match the club’s ambitions. In the current season, he appeared in a number of competitive fixtures and contributed when called upon, gaining valuable experience in a new league and environment. Across all appearances for the team, he accumulated several important minutes and continued to develop his understanding of the tactical demands at Real Sociedad.
Earlier remarks from Zakharyan himself reflected a sense of belief in the project abroad. The sentiment expressed around this transition underlined the excitement that comes with joining a club known for its competitive spirit and strategic clarity. The experience described by the player’s representatives captured a broader narrative about adapting to a different football culture and the ongoing process of building a long-term foundation in a foreign league. Such viewpoints often resonate with fans who understand that success in new surroundings rarely happens overnight, and it takes sustained effort, time, and collective support from teammates and staff to realize potential and secure a meaningful contribution on the field.