Charlotte FC announced the signing of Malian midfielder Baye Coulibaly on Sept. 3, 2025. Coulibaly joined the organization via Crown Legacy FC from Croatian side NK Kustošija Zagreb on Dec. 18, 2024.
Coming to the Queen City, Coulibaly has been seen as one of the brightest young talents in the world. He caught the eye of many at the 2023 U-17 World Cup, where Mali finished in third place. The Bamako native had nine total caps with Mali’s U-17 squad in 2023 and joined Kustošija’s First Team ahead of the 2024/25 season, making him the youngest addition to their squad. He made 12 appearances, 10 starts, and scored one goal. He made his professional debut on Aug. 28, 2024, in a domestic cup match against NK Polet Sveti Martin na Muri at 18 years, 7 months and 20 days old.
