Real Sociedad sporting director Erik Bretos says the club remain committed to helping Arsen Zakharyan fulfil his potential, despite admitting the midfielder’s third season at the club left everyone disappointed.
Zakharyan joined Real Sociedad with a reputation as a talented player, but his progress has been disrupted during his time in Spain. Bretos said the Russia international’s first campaign was primarily about adapting to a new environment, although he showed enough during that period to demonstrate what he could offer the club.
The midfielder then endured injury problems in his second season. According to Bretos, the following campaign proved particularly frustrating, with Zakharyan’s third year failing to meet expectations.
Bretos said he spoke to Zakharyan towards the end of last season about his situation and the standards expected at Real Sociedad. He explained that the club had traditionally been prepared to show patience with talented players and give them time to develop.
However, Bretos also made clear that patience could not continue indefinitely without signs of progress. He told Zakharyan that going three years without producing the expected results was a reason for everyone to reflect on the situation.
The 23-year-old has made just one appearance in the Spanish league this season. His current contract with Real Sociedad runs until 2029, leaving the club with a long-term commitment to the player despite the uncertainty surrounding his development.
Bretos’ comments indicate that Real Sociedad have not abandoned their belief in Zakharyan, but they also underline the pressure on the midfielder to turn his ability into consistent performances. The club’s position combines patience with an acknowledgement that the previous three seasons have not delivered the progress anticipated when he arrived.
His opening season was viewed as an adjustment period, during which the club saw evidence that he could contribute in San Sebastian. Injuries then limited his involvement in his second campaign, while his third season proved disappointing from the perspective of both the player and the club.
That sequence has left Zakharyan facing an important stage of his Real Sociedad career. With only one league appearance so far this season and his deal extending to 2029, his future remains tied to whether he can overcome the difficulties that have restricted his impact.
Real Sociedad’s approach, as described by Bretos, is to continue giving a talented player time while recognising that a prolonged lack of results must prompt questions. For now, the club’s sporting director has made clear that belief in Zakharyan remains, even after a difficult period of adaptation, injuries and unmet expectations.