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Wilfried Zaha has wasted no time adjusting to life in MLS with Charlotte FC. The 32-year-old made his debut for his new club on Saturday as he starred in their 2-0 home win over Atlanta United. It was his first appearance for Dean Smith's side since signing on an 18-month loan from Galatasaray in January. Zaha's move could become permanent if he meets performance-based clauses in the deal. Those clauses could be triggered sooner rather than later after his man of the match display on debut. The former Crystal Palace winger scored and assisted - becoming an instant fan favourite as a result. Zaha was involved in both his side's goals as they scored twice in five minutes shortly after the start of the second half. After setting up Pep Biel for the opener, the Ivorian got in on the act himself. Latching onto a rebound in the penalty area, Zaha punished a loose save from Brad Guzan in the Atlanta goal. The former Aston Villa keeper was unable to keep out the forward's first-time finish as he found the bottom corner. Zaha's goal and assist come after he missed Charlotte's opening match of the season last weekend. The Crown, whose squad also includes ex-Fulham defender Tim Ream, began their campaign with a 2-2 draw at Seattle Sounders. Meanwhile, their win over Atlanta sees Charlotte move to the top of the Eastern Conference after playing before their rivals this week. Zaha will be looking to add to his tally against Lionel Messi next time out. His side travel to Florida to face Inter Miami in their third match of the season on March 9. Prior to moving to MLS, Zaha spent the first half of this season on loan at Lyon, having joined Galatasaray in 2023. He previously spent eight years at Palace in his second spell at Selhurst Park. His Premier League exit came after 68 goals in 305 appearances in the competition for Manchester United, Cardiff and the Eagles. © 2025 talk SPORT Limited
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