Charlotte FC Bolsters Attack with Loan Acquisition of Wilfried Zaha
Charlotte FC made a major move on Wednesday by securing the services of veteran forward Wilfried Zaha on loan from Turkish club Galatasaray. The Ivory Coast international, 32, joins the Major League Soccer (MLS) side through January 2026, with an option to extend his stay until June of that year. He will fill a Designated Player spot alongside forwards Liel Abada and Karol Swiderski, adding firepower to Charlotte’s attacking options.
Zaha’s Proven Track Record
Zaha brings a wealth of experience and a proven scoring pedigree. Across 524 professional appearances, he has notched 100 goals and 59 assists. The majority of his career was spent with English Premier League side Crystal Palace, where he scored 90 goals in 458 games from 2010 to 2023. His technical ability, creativity, and finishing skills have made him a standout performer on both the club and international stages.
Charlotte FC General Manager Zoran Krneta expressed excitement about the acquisition: “Wilfried is a world-class talent who has proven himself at the highest level of the sport as an elite goal scorer and chance creator. His performances in the Premier League and on the international level speak for themselves, and we are confident that Wilfried can make an immediate impact in Major League Soccer.”
Versatility and Magic Up Front
Krneta also highlighted Zaha’s versatility and the spark he brings to the attack. “He provides valuable versatility in the attacking areas of the pitch and adds that little bit of magic to our front line that can help us win more games. We are delighted to add a player of Wilfried’s pedigree and experience to our squad, and we’re excited to welcome him to Charlotte.”
International Credentials
Zaha has also made his mark on the international stage, scoring five goals in 33 appearances for the Ivory Coast. He represented the Elephants in three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (2017, 2019, and 2021), contributing to their competitive performances in the region’s premier competition.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
With Zaha’s arrival, Charlotte FC is set to strengthen its bid for success in the upcoming MLS season. The club opens its 2025 regular season campaign on February 22 against the Seattle Sounders, with Zaha’s presence expected to be a key factor in their offensive strategies moving forward.