Eric Bailly is currently focused on regaining peak physical condition as he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his professional career.
Unattached for over a week, the Ivorian international is putting in the work behind the scenes while weighing his options across several potential destinations.
After parting ways with his previous club, Bailly has not remained idle.
He is training rigorously in Europe with the clear goal of being fully match-ready when the right opportunity arises.
His determination is driven by more than just club ambitions; with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the horizon and the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming, the 30-year-old defender is eager to re-establish himself in the Côte d’Ivoire national team setup.
I need consistent playing time, Bailly is said to have told close associates. I know what I’m capable of, and I want to be in the best shape possible to help my country in the competitions ahead.
According to sources close to the player, clubs from France, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia have all expressed interest in signing the experienced centre-back.
Yet, despite the growing list of suitors, Bailly’s next move remains uncertain, with some suggesting that his destination may come as a surprise.
The former Manchester United defender, known for his aggressive style and physical presence, has endured a turbulent few seasons marked by injury setbacks and limited minutes on the pitch.
Most recently, he featured for Besiktas in Turkey and earlier had a brief stint with Marseille in Ligue 1.
Though his time at both clubs was uneven, his international pedigree and top-level experience remain unquestioned.
His focus now lies in finding a team that aligns with his goals — namely, regular appearances, a competitive environment, and the chance to reignite the form that once made him one of the most promising defenders in European football.
Observers note that Bailly’s next choice could define the remainder of his playing career.
As such, his camp is said to be taking a measured approach, looking not just at financial terms but at project quality and long-term vision.
For Ivorian fans, the hope is that Bailly secures a platform to showcase his talents once again — just in time to anchor the Elephants’ backline in a pair of pivotal international tournaments.
Until then, the veteran continues to train, waiting patiently for the right call to return to action.
