Zakharyan back in training for Real Sociedad after fever scare
Russian midfielder Arsen Zakharyan returns to Real Sociedad training after missing new boss Matarazzo's first session due to illness, hoping for increased playing time.
Russian talent looking for a fresh start under new management after overcoming brief illness.
Back in the fold
Arsen Zakharyan has returned to Real Sociedad training today after a brief fever scare that forced him to miss most of new gaffer Pallegrino Matarazzo’s first session yesterday. The Russian midfielder managed to shake off his illness quickly enough to participate in this morning’s workout, giving him a proper chance to impress his new boss.
The timing couldn’t be better for Zakharyan, who’s been desperate for more minutes after struggling to become a regular fixture under previous manager Sergio Francisco. With Matarazzo now at the helm, the talented Russian will be hoping this change in the dugout might finally give him the platform to showcase his abilities on a more consistent basis.
Matarazzo’s methods
Today’s training schedule featured two separate sessions, with Zakharyan participating in the morning workout. Club footage showed assistant John Maisano leading much of the morning exercises, continuing his prominent role in directing training drills.
The afternoon session is expected to have a more tactical focus, which is where Matarazzo himself is likely to take a more hands-on approach, similar to how he managed yesterday’s practice match at the end of training.
Fresh start potential
For Zakharyan, this managerial change represents a golden opportunity. The Russian has shown flashes of his talent since arriving at La Real but hasn’t quite cemented himself as an essential component of the team’s midfield.
With Matarazzo’s arrival bringing a clean slate for everyone in the squad, players who were previously on the periphery under Francisco might find themselves with renewed prospects. Zakharyan certainly falls into that category, and his prompt recovery from illness demonstrates his eagerness to make an impression on the new Italian-American coach.