Eric Bailly
COL
Center Back
Ball-Playing Center Back
Apr 12, 1994 (32)
Right
6'2"
170 lb
Ranking
Grades
Key Grades
2026 Major League Soccer
Overall Grades by game
2026 Major League Soccer
Upcoming matches
News
Signs with Columbus Crew
Bailly has signed with the Columbus Crew as a free agent, most recently having played for Real Oviedo, according to the club.
Analysis: Bailly made 113 appearances for Manchester United across seven seasons, contributing one goal and one assist while winning the Europa League, EFL Cup and FA Community Shield, and also had spells with Espanyol, Villarreal across two stints, Marseille and Besiktas before joining Real Oviedo last season, where he made 16 appearances and scored one goal. The 31 year old Ivory Coast international has earned 49 caps for his country and was part of the squad that won the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. His contract with Columbus runs through June 2027 with club options for two additional seasons, giving the team an experienced defensive presence as it pushes through the second half of the season.
In Squad for Thursday
Bailly (undisclosed) has been included in the squad for Thursday's clash against Real Madrid, according to the club.
Analysis: Bailly's return to the matchday squad is an encouraging development after being forced off in the 12th minute of Sunday's match against Getafe, raising fears of a potentially season-ending injury. The defender's inclusion suggests the issue was not as serious as initially feared, giving coach Guillermo Almada an additional option at the back for one of the most high-profile fixtures remaining on Oviedo's calendar. David Costas, who had stepped in to replace him against Getafe, could revert to a depth role with Bailly back in contention.
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