Dyakov, formerly a defender for Dynamo Moscow, reflected on Arsen Zakharyan’s early impression during Real Sociedad’s Champions League group-stage clash with Benfica in Lisbon. The encounter offered a look at how a rising Russian talent adapts to Europe’s demanding stage, where every touch is scrutinized and each decision resonates through the stadium. Dyakov observed that the game plan aimed to seize and preserve a lead, with the side already ahead 1-0 at a crucial moment. Technically, he noted that Zakharyan’s involvement helped steady ball circulation, especially in moments when tempo and control mattered most for the visitors. This assessment aligned with the tactical instructions given by the coaching staff, a factor Dyakov described as vital to the team’s performance in those opening exchanges.
On October 24, Zakharyan marked his Real Sociedad debut in a Champions League match against Benfica. The Russian came off the bench in the 76th minute, replacing Ander Barrenechea as the score stood 1-0 to the Spanish side. The substitution illustrated the manager’s approach to integrating fresh talent into high-stakes European fixtures, balancing experience with youth while there was still ample time to influence the game. The moment underscored the trust the squad places in Zakharyan to impact the contest even as a substitute, a theme echoed in discussions about his early adaptation to the heightened tempo and tactical discipline demanded by Champions League football. Observers highlighted his calm demeanor and willingness to embrace the competition’s intensity, signs that his development path could align with Real Sociedad’s broader ambitions in Europe (via Euro-Football.Ru).
Real Sociedad officially announced Zakharyan’s transfer from Dynamo Moscow on August 19, with a contract through June 2029. The move signified a major step in his career, transitioning from the Russian league to Spain’s La Liga, a competition known for technical proficiency, ball progression, and positional intelligence. His La Liga debut followed shortly after, entering in the 75th minute against Las Palmas on August 25. In his first five league appearances for the club, he largely appeared as a substitute, a common path for young talents adjusting to a new league and its physical and tactical demands. The learning curve in Spain—where tempo, spacing, and decision-making are continually tested—is a crucial phase many players navigate before earning consistent minutes and making a longer-term impact. Analysts noted how this transitional period has drawn attention, with early signs that Zakharyan’s swift ball movement, disciplined pressing when out of possession, and growing ability to find space in the final third could suit Real Sociedad’s style (via Euro-Football.Ru).
Beyond surface metrics, former players observing Zakharyan’s early appearances describe a narrative familiar to many Russian forwards and midfielders abroad. While his Champions League start may not have been flashy in direct statistics, broader indicators point to a player gradually acclimating to the pace, physicality, and strategic nuance of top-tier European competition. Dyakov’s perspective highlights a coachable mindset and a willingness to align with tactical instructions, factors that often decide whether a player contributes meaningfully after a transfer. The path to regular minutes at Real Sociedad typically involves refining decision-making under pressure, improving off-ball movement to create space for teammates, and sharpening in-game awareness to exploit transitions. This ongoing process, still in its early stages, has drawn sustained interest in football circles monitoring how young prospects adapt to Europe (via Euro-Football.Ru).
Zakharyan’s development is viewed within Real Sociedad’s broader roster strategy and the club’s objectives in La Liga and Europe. The manager’s plan to integrate him—balancing creative potential with the squad’s established rhythm—reflects a longer-term confidence that his technical range will mature into a steady contribution. For supporters, the narrative is one of cautious optimism: an international-experienced player who has shown the ability to operate in high-stakes matches is beginning to translate those moments into consistent performances in a league renowned for tactical sophistication. As he continues to adapt, observers anticipate greater involvement in domestic and European fixtures, with expectations that his metrics will reflect growing fluency in Real Sociedad’s system (via Euro-Football.Ru).
Former players and pundits have weighed in on Zakharyan’s early Champions League spell, generally acknowledging the steep learning curve while recognizing his potential. The consensus is that early appearances rarely dictate a player’s ultimate trajectory, yet they reveal the foundation for future success. In Zakharyan’s case, the signs point to a young midfielder absorbing the demands of a richer competitive environment and appearing ready to translate those experiences into meaningful contributions as the season progresses. Real Sociedad supporters and football strategists alike will watch how quickly he converts game intelligence into consistent on-field impact, especially in European contexts where the smallest edge can redefine a campaign. The evolving story continues to be tracked by Euro-Football.Ru for ongoing insights into his journey and the club’s adaptation to his talents (via Euro-Football.Ru).