Nikolai Naumov, a former president of Lokomotiv, believes Arsen Zakharyan has taken longer to adjust to Real Sociedad than some expected. The midfielder’s early period in the Spanish league has been tough, with Naumov noting that while he has finally opened his scoring account, the timing may not have aligned with the most optimistic forecasts in Spain. He suggested that in the near term, regular goals could come, but if Zakharyan does not raise his attacking involvement or contribute assists, questions about a potential loan extension or even a contract termination could arise. The takeaway mirrors the pressure foreign signings face to convert talent into consistent performances in a new league and system for the sake of team stability and growth.
On March 15, Zakharyan found the back of the net for Real Sociedad in a match against Cadiz, marking a personal milestone in his ongoing adjustment to Spanish football. The transfer move was confirmed on August 19, 2023, when Real Sociedad announced the acquisition of Zakharyan from Dynamo Moscow. The contract runs through June 2029. Zakharyan made his La Liga debut for the club in the 75th minute of the game against Las Palmas on August 25, appearing in 20 league matches that season, recording one goal and one assist.
A notable milestone occurred on October 24, when Zakharyan played his first Champions League minutes for Real Sociedad, coming on as a 76th-minute substitute in a group-stage match against Benfica with the score 1-0 in favor of the home team. He added another chapter to his European competition experience during that appearance.
Earlier coverage highlighted early disappointment around the signing. Observers noted that despite the initial promise, moving to a new country and league can come with a period of adjustment, during which timing, positioning, and tempo must align with a player’s strengths. Reports emphasized that Real Sociedad’s coaching staff has continued to integrate Zakharyan into the team’s tactical plan, aiming to maximize his creativity in wide and central roles while ensuring solid defensive duties.
As discussions about his long-term impact continue, fans and analysts watch how Zakharyan leverages his technical ability, decision-making, and pace to influence matches beyond scoring. The expectation in Spanish football circles is that his form will stabilize, producing a steady flow of goals and assists that reflect the high potential many saw when he left Dynamo Moscow. The broader narrative around the transfer centers on how quickly a top-level academy product can adapt to a different culture, language, and playing style, and how that adaptation translates into tangible team success.
Some commentators stress the importance of patience, noting that a player’s first season with a new club often sets the stage for future impact. They point to a growing trend of successful foreign signings who, after an initial period of adjustment, become regular contributors in major European leagues. With Zakharyan’s talent and the club’s support system, there remains a strong expectation that sustained involvement at the attacking end of the pitch will follow and that Real Sociedad will benefit from his developing confidence and fluency in the team’s pressing and passing sequences.
Cumulative impressions over the weeks suggest a trajectory that could eventually see Zakharyan becoming a central figure in the Real Sociedad lineup, provided he maintains consistency and continues to grow in influence during both domestic and continental competitions. by football observers and club reports.