The Columbus Crew has announced that the Club has signed free-agent defender Eric Bailly, with over a decade of experience in the English Premier League, La Liga, Ligue 1, and the Trendyol Super Lig in Turkey. Most recently, with Real Oviedo, Bailly also suited up for Manchester United during the 2016/17 season. Bailly will join the Crew pending receipt of his P-1 Visa and international transfer certificate.

Bailly is guaranteed through June 2027 with Club options for 2027/28 and 2028/29 while occupying an International Roster Slot for the Black & Gold.

“We are excited to welcome Eric to Columbus. His experience at the highest levels of the game, combined with his defensive quality, leadership, and composure, will strengthen our backline and have an impact on our roster. Eric brings a winning mentality and valuable experience that will benefit our group both on and off the field. We look forward ot integrating him into the team as we continue pushing toward our goals in the second half of the season.” – Crew General Manager Issa Tall

The Ivorian native has made over 200+ appearances, tallying three goals and two assists across his playing career while recording over 19,000+ minutes.

A winner of the Africa Cup with the Ivory Coast national team, an Europa League title (2016/17), the English League Cup, and FA Community Shield winner with Manchester United, Bailly brings experience from the big leagues, as well as Champions League experience. Bailly also participated in the 2020/21 Olympics with the Ivory Coast national team, tallying one goal.

Bailly was brought up through the RCD Espanyol youth club before making the jump to the senior team during the latter half of the 2014/15 season. He then joined Villarreal for a year and a half before signing with United for 38m Euros.

During his time in Manchester, Bailly appeared 113 times, tallying one goal and one assist. He also made 11 appearances during United’s Europa League-winning campaign and one appearance during their EFL Cup run. He then added a full 90 minutes in United’s 2-1 win over Leicester City during the FA Community Shield.

With Real Oviedo, Bailly appeared 16 times and notched just one goal. He also featured five times for Beşiktaş in 2023 after spending time on loan at Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille, where he played 23 times across all competitions.