Arsen Zakharyan has been named in Real Sociedad’s squad for their next La Liga match, meaning the attacking midfielder will be available for selection against Celta despite the controversy surrounding him.
The inclusion was confirmed by the San Sebastian club’s press office ahead of the third-round fixture. Zakharyan, 23, is therefore in contention to feature when Real Sociedad face Celta on 3 September.
The recent controversy had cast uncertainty over the Russian midfielder’s immediate involvement with the team. However, his selection indicates that he remains part of Real Sociedad’s plans for the match.
The club’s sporting director previously said Real Sociedad continued to believe in Zakharyan. That public backing has been followed by his inclusion in the squad for the meeting with Celta.
Zakharyan has made only one appearance in La Liga so far this season. He did not register a goal or an assist in that match, and his inclusion for the third-round game gives him the opportunity to add to his playing time.
Real Sociedad will host Celta on 3 September, with kick-off scheduled for 22:00 Moscow time. The fixture is the next league assignment for the San Sebastian side and could provide Zakharyan with another chance to make an impact in the new campaign.
The midfielder’s place in the squad does not guarantee that he will start or take part in the match, but he is eligible to play after being selected by the club. His involvement will now depend on the team’s final decisions for the game.
Zakharyan’s selection comes at a significant point after the incident that generated widespread attention. Real Sociedad’s sporting director has maintained that the club retains faith in the player, while the latest squad announcement confirms that he remains available for the first-team fixture.
The match between Real Sociedad and Celta will be played in the third round of the Spanish championship. LiveResult will provide a text commentary of the game.