Deal completed: Wilfried Zaha joins the MLS team

Wilfried Zaha, an Ivorian talent, left Turkish champion Galatasaray to join Charlotte FC of the Major League Soccer (MLS).

The seasoned winger joined the Crown on loan with a January 2026 expiration date and a June 2026 extension option.

Over the past six months, Zaha has been playing for Ligue 1 powerhouse Olympique Lyonnais in France on loan from Galatasaray, making six games but failing to score or provide an assist.

According to Charlotte, the 32-year-old will be on the team’s 2025 roster as an international and a designated player.

Wilfried is a top-tier player who has established himself as a superb goal scorer and creator of chances at the greatest level of the game. “We are certain that Wilfried can have an instant impact in Major League Soccer, as his performances in the Premier League and internationally speak for themselves,” stated Zoran Krneta, general manager of Charlotte.

“He adds that little bit of magic to our front line that can help us win more games and offers valuable versatility in the attacking areas of the pitch.” We are thrilled to welcome Wilfried to Charlotte and are happy to have a player with his background and experience join our team.

Before the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Gabon, Zaha changed his national team allegiance to Ivory Coast, his birthplace.

After making his debut in a friendly match against Sweden in January 2017, he recorded an assist. Since then, he has amassed 33 caps, scored four goals and dishing out six assists.