Eric Bailly officially a Real Oviedo player

It’s official. Real Oviedo announced the signing of Éric Bailly via social media this Monday. The Ivorian international has signed a two-year contract with the Spanish club, which runs until June 2027. The 31-year-old central defender arrives on a free transfer after completing his contract with Villarreal.

 

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Éric Bailly’s arrival at Real Oviedo follows the failure of his transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Najma Sports Club, which recently joined the Saudi Premier League. Bailly has been a free agent since the end of his contract with Villarreal following the 2024-25 season, during which he made twelve appearances.

The Ivorian central defender has played for several European clubs, starting with Espanyol and then Villarreal, before joining Manchester United. Éric Bailly spent his longest professional career with the English club. He also spent time on loan at French Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille (OM), then joined Turkish side Besiktas, and from there, returned to Villarreal.

Bailly also has 49 appearances for the Ivory Coast national team, last appearing for the Elephants in a 0-1 defeat against Sierra Leone during 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying in October 2024.

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original written in French by Ablam Gnamesso for Pan-Africa Football.

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