Eric Bailly Links Up with Santi Cazorla at Real Oviedo in Surprise Move Announced in Elephant-Themed Reveal

Key Takeaways:

• Eric Bailly, formerly of Manchester United, has signed for newly-promoted Real Oviedo
• Bailly joins up with Santi Cazorla, who helped Oviedo secure LaLiga promotion in June and featured last weekend against Villarreal
• Real Oviedo will host Real Madrid this weekend, with Bailly’s availability still uncertain

Bailly’s Move to Real Oviedo Confirmed in Unique Fashion

Eric Bailly, the Ivorian defender who previously played for Manchester United, has completed a transfer to Real Oviedo. The Spanish side, newly promoted to LaLiga, announced the signing in a distinctive manner—releasing a video featuring an elephant, a nod to Bailly’s Ivory Coast national side who are known as “the elephants”.

Bailly, aged 31, was acquired by Manchester United from Villarreal for £30 million in 2016. Despite remaining with the Red Devils for seven years, the centre-back was limited to 113 appearances, largely due to injury setbacks. He spent a brief period at Besiktas before rejoining Villarreal in 2023. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano indicated that Bailly had the opportunity to join a Saudi Arabian club this summer, but instead has opted for Real Oviedo.

Santi Cazorla’s Continued Impact at Oviedo

Bailly will be joining Santi Cazorla at Oviedo. Cazorla, 40, returned to his hometown club in 2023 and played a crucial role in their return to Spain’s top division for the first time in 24 years, completing a fairytale moment in June. The veteran midfielder signed a one-year contract extension last month and made a substitute appearance last weekend as Oviedo suffered a 2-0 away defeat to Villarreal, his former side.

Upcoming Fixture and Player Availability

Real Oviedo are set to face Real Madrid in a high-profile encounter this weekend. It remains unclear whether Bailly will be match-fit in time to feature in the squad for this fixture.