The Ivory Coast international, 33, joined Charlotte in January 2025 on loan and made 46 appearances in total across league and playoff football over a year and a half with the club, scoring 13 goals and providing 14 assists — ranking fifth in Charlotte FC's all-time goal contribution standings with 27.
His most impactful season was his first, when he contributed 10 goals and 10 assists and helped the club reach the top four in the Eastern Conference playoffs for the first time in their history. This season he added three goals and four assists in 13 appearances before the loan ended.
Charlotte general manager Zoran Krneta paid tribute in the club's official statement.
"Wilfried has been an important part of Charlotte FC since his arrival on loan last winter and has played a key role in our attack since joining. Last season, Wilf helped us reach the top four in the Eastern Conference for the first time, and he approached every match with a hunger and desire to perform for our supporters.
"Everyone at Charlotte FC thanks Wilfried for his contributions to the club, and we all wish him and his family continued success throughout the rest of his career."
Zaha published a farewell message on Instagram.
"The moment has come to say goodbye, but I just wanted to thank Charlotte, the city, for welcoming me and my family with open arms and allowing me to fall in love with the game again. There's been many highs and many lows, but it's about the journey in the end, and I loved every minute."
He will return to parent club Galatasaray this summer. He joined the Turkish champions from Crystal Palace in August 2023 and is contracted there until 2026. His next destination beyond the summer has not been confirmed.
Zaha was not included in Ivory Coast's squad for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Charlotte FC will have a Designated Player slot and an international roster spot available for the summer transfer window, which opens on 13 July.