A New Chapter in Wilfried Zaha’s Journey
Wilfried Zaha, the 32-year-old Crystal Palace legend, is setting his sights on a new chapter as he embarks on his American adventure with Charlotte FC. Zaha, who has been a stalwart for the Eagles for over a decade, made the surprising move to Major League Soccer (MLS) following two less-than-stellar years abroad. After leaving Palace on a free transfer in 2023, he joined Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he managed to score ten goals and even netted in the Champions League. However, his time in Turkey didn’t quite pan out as he had hoped, leading him to a brief loan stint with Lyon in France. Despite limited appearances with Lyon, Zaha remains undaunted and is determined to make his mark in North Carolina.
Reflecting on His Palace Legacy
Reflecting on his remarkable tenure with Crystal Palace, Zaha speaks with a sense of pride and accomplishment. He joined the club’s academy at the tender age of eight and went on to become a club legend, making 458 appearances and scoring 68 out of his 90 goals in the Premier League. He is the third-highest appearance-maker in Palace’s history, following Jim Cannon and Terry Long. Zaha’s enduring association with the club is immortalized on the side of a house next to Selhurst Park, where a mural of him stands as a testament to his impact. "It doesn’t stop my journey," he says. "I’ve left Palace in a good way. I’ve played for a childhood club, and I’ve left there with a mural. I feel like there’s nothing more I could have done really."
Embracing New Challenges
Despite the challenges faced in his recent moves, Zaha remains confident in his abilities and is eager to prove himself in MLS. "I’m still thinking I’m still the player that I am, and if I get the opportunity, I’m going to show it every time," he asserts. For Zaha, these experiences are more than just setbacks; they are learning opportunities that have made him stronger and more resilient. He is determined to bring this resilience and high standard of play to Charlotte FC. "I have come in here to score goals and try to win stuff. I set myself incredibly high standards. So when I do speak, people will actually listen because I show you an example by what I do," he explains. His resolve is evident, and he is ready to leave his mark in the new league.
A Warm Welcome in Charlotte
Zaha’s transition to Charlotte FC has been made smoother by the warm welcome he has received. The club’s head coach, Dean Smith, a former manager at Aston Villa and Brentford, approached Zaha about the move while he was in London last year. Smith’s familiarity with Zaha’s capabilities and the club’s interest in his talents were significant factors in his decision to sign. Additionally, having former Palace teammates like Ashley Westwood and the advice from American defender Chris Richards have been invaluable. Zaha has also been tuning into MLS games, particularly those featuring his former teammate Christian Benteke, who won the Golden Boot with DC United last season. "The standard is definitely getting a lot better. So many players are coming here and the world is paying attention," he notes, recognizing the league’s growing stature.
Keeping an Eye on AFC Croydon Athletic
While Zaha is focused on his new role with Charlotte FC, he is also keeping a keen eye on AFC Croydon Athletic, a non-league club he co-owns with rapper Stormzy. AFC Croydon Athletic achieved a significant milestone in their first season under Zaha and Stormzy’s ownership, winning promotion to the eighth tier — the Isthmian League South East Division. This dual role as both a professional player and a club owner speaks to Zaha’s multifaceted approach to his career and his deep commitment to the community he grew up in. "Before I begin the MLS campaign, I want to ensure that AFC Croydon Athletic continues to thrive and grow," he says, balancing his new responsibilities with his passion for the grassroots level of the sport.
Preparing for the MLS Debut
As Zaha prepares for his MLS debut, he is currently staying in a hotel in Charlotte and facing the practical challenges of settling into a new country. One of the most immediate tasks is finding suitable clothing for his new life and career. "I’m scrambling with clothes right now. That’s what I’m waiting for. My clothes — and my family, that’s about it. I’m good to go," he jokes, adding a touch of levity to his new adventure. Zaha’s debut with Charlotte FC is set for early Sunday morning UK time against Seattle Sounders, and he is excited about the prospect of facing top-tier talents like Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the coming months. His determination and positive attitude are evident as he looks forward to this new chapter, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
