Wilfried Zaha is a professional footballer who plays as a winger for Major League Soccer club Charlotte FC, on loan from Galatasaray, and represents the Ivory Coast national team.
Early Life and Career:
Born on November 10, 1992, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Zaha moved to London at the age of four. He joined the youth academy of Crystal Palace at ten and made his first-team debut in 2010. Over three seasons, he made 110 appearances and scored 12 goals, playing a pivotal role in the team’s promotion to the Premier League in the 2012–13 season.
Manchester United and Loan Spells:
In January 2013, Zaha signed with Manchester United but remained on loan at Crystal Palace for the rest of the season. His time at United was limited, leading to loan spells at Cardiff City and a return to Crystal Palace. In 2015, he rejoined Crystal Palace permanently, becoming a central figure over the next eight years, with 291 appearances and 69 goals.
Move to Galatasaray and Subsequent Loans:
In July 2023, Zaha transferred to Turkish club Galatasaray, signing a three-year contract. He contributed to the team’s success, including winning the Turkish league title. For the 2024–25 season, he was loaned to Olympique Lyonnais in France, but the loan was cut short in January 2025 after six appearances.
Current Loan to Charlotte FC:
In January 2025, Zaha joined Major League Soccer side Charlotte FC on loan until January 2026, with an option to extend until June 2026. He joins as a Designated Player, bringing experience and attacking prowess to the team.
International Career:
Initially representing England at youth levels and earning two senior caps in friendlies, Zaha switched allegiance to Ivory Coast in 2016. Since then, he has earned 33 caps and scored five goals, participating in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.