Wilfried Zaha Bio
Dazet Wilfried Armel Zaha (born 10 November 1992) is an Ivorian professional footballer who plays as a winger for Major League Soccer club Charlotte FC, on loan from Süper Lig club Galatasaray, and the Ivory Coast national team. A product of Crystal Palace’s youth academy, Zaha made his senior debut for the then Championship, now Premier League, side in 2010. He scored 18 goals in 143 appearances in just over three seasons with the club, and was instrumental in their promotion to the Premier League in 2013. He subsequently joined Manchester United for £10 million, becoming Sir Alex Ferguson’s last signing for the club, and won the Community Shield on his debut. Having made just four appearances in his only season in Manchester and enduring a brief loan spell at Cardiff City, Zaha returned to Crystal Palace in 2014. He went on to score 72 goals in 315 appearances for the club over the next nine seasons, becoming the club’s tenth-highest all-time goalscorer, and their highest ever goalscorer in the Premier League, helping to establish the club in the top-flight before his departure in 2023.
Early Life and Background
Dazet Wilfried Armel Zaha was born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. At the age of four, he moved with his family, which includes eight siblings, to Thornton Heath in the London Borough of Croydon, England. Zaha was educated at Whitehorse Manor Junior School and Selsdon High School. He played football at school and joined the Crystal Palace academy at the age of eight, where he began to develop his skills and passion for the sport.
Path to Soccer
Zaha was given his Crystal Palace first-team debut at home to Cardiff City on 27 March 2010 by caretaker manager Paul Hart. He signed a two-year professional contract with Palace in April 2010, quickly progressing through the ranks and becoming a key member of the first team during the 2010–11 pre-season friendlies. Zaha’s early career was marked by his impressive performances, including scoring his first senior goal in a 3–2 win over Leicester City on 7 August 2010. His talent caught the attention of larger clubs, leading to his eventual transfer to Manchester United.
Wilfried Zaha Career
Early Career (2010–2013)
Zaha’s first notable work came during his time at Crystal Palace, where he made a significant impact in the Championship. He was voted The Football League’s Young Player of the Year in March 2012, and at the end of the 2011–12 season, he was named Crystal Palace Young Player of the Year for the second consecutive time. His performances helped Crystal Palace secure promotion to the Premier League in 2013, where he continued to excel.
Breakthrough (2013–2015)
Zaha’s breakthrough moment came when he signed with Manchester United on 25 January 2013. He was immediately loaned back to Crystal Palace for the remainder of the season, where he played a crucial role in their promotion. He made his debut for Manchester United in the 2013 FA Community Shield against Wigan Athletic, winning his first major honour in football. However, his time at United was challenging, leading to a loan spell at Cardiff City.
Notable Works and Milestones
Zaha’s signature work includes his time at Crystal Palace, where he became the club’s highest ever goalscorer in the Premier League. He won the Crystal Palace Player of the Year award multiple times, showcasing his importance to the team. His return to Crystal Palace after his stint at Manchester United solidified his status as a club legend.
Wilfried Zaha Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Zaha has received numerous nominations for his performances, particularly during his time at Crystal Palace, where he was recognized for his contributions to the team.
Wilfried Zaha Awards Won
Zaha has won several awards, including the Crystal Palace Player of the Year multiple times, highlighting his impact and importance to the club.
Wilfried Zaha Family
Wilfried Zaha is married to Paige Bannister, with whom he tied the knot in July 2023.
Personal Life
Zaha is also known for his involvement in football beyond his playing career. He serves as a co-chairman of Isthmian League South East club AFC Croydon Athletic, alongside Danny Young and Michael Owuo Jr., better known as Stormzy.
