The Russian ArsenZakaryan was once again a starter for Real Sociedad in mid-October, this time as a center forward, and made the difference with a goal that ended a long scoring drought. The performance of the 23-year-old player, who had been used in offensive reference positions in recent games, was decisive in the 3-0 win over Deportivo de La Coruña, establishing himself as a key piece in the rojiblanco attack.
The team coach, who had previously commented that Zakharyan was in excellent physical shape and performing better than his previous seasons, decided to put him in the main attack line. This was the first time that the forward played at the start of the season, and the first time he occupied the false nine position in Real's scheme. The decision was based on the versatility of the player, who can operate between the lines and create spaces for wingers and defensive midfielders, as explained by the coach in the press conference.
Zakharyan's goal came in the 56th minute, when the team was already leading 3‑0. The forward showed his mobility and his ability to filter the center of the area, culminating with a bicycle that left the goalkeeper with no options. The goal was the first scored by Real in the league since October last year, when the team beat Negreira in the Cup. The goal also reminded fans of Zakharyan's last goal in the league, which occurred in February 2025 against Leganés, where he also scored a great goal from outside the box.
The coach highlighted that Zakharyan's performance demonstrated his danger in the final third of the field and his ability to play vertically and directly, qualities that he has shown in training. In addition, he assured that the player has great confidence from the coaching staff and that his performance in the match was very positive. The coach also mentioned that Zakharyan's presence up front allows the wingers and defensive midfielders to find depth in the last line, thus creating more scoring opportunities.
With this result, Real Sociedad maintains its position in the table and continues to seek to consolidate its attack with players like Zakharyan, who has proven to be a valuable resource both in the attacking line and in play creation. The team will continue to evaluate his performance in the upcoming games, with the expectation that the Russian will continue contributing goals and assists in the coming days.