Charlotte FC has announced the addition of midfielder Baye Coulibaly to its First Team roster. Coulibaly, a 19-year-old Malian international, moves up from Crown Legacy FC, the club’s MLS NEXT Pro affiliate. His contract extends through 2028, with an option for 2029.
Coulibaly joins under Major League Soccer’s U22 Initiative and will take an international roster slot. The club highlighted his strong preseason and regular season performances as key factors in the promotion.
“Baye is an exciting young talent that has impressed us with his strong performances in preseason and throughout the MLS NEXT Pro season,” said General Manager Zoran Krneta. “Baye will be a fantastic addition that strengthens our midfield through the final stretch of the 2025 season and beyond. The Club is proud to develop and integrate another talented prospect through Crown Legacy and our Pro Player Pathway. We are excited to follow his continued development here.”
Since joining Charlotte FC’s organization in December 2024, Coulibaly played in 20 matches for Crown Legacy FC, ranking second on the team in minutes played with 1,646. He also recorded an assist against Orlando City B on July 6. Before arriving at Crown Legacy, he made one goal in 12 appearances for NK Kustošija Zagreb.
Internationally, Coulibaly was part of Mali’s U-17 national team in 2023, earning nine caps during their third-place run at the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Charlotte FC acquired Coulibaly by signing him from Crown Legacy FC. He will fill both a U22 Initiative spot and an international roster position on the team.
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