Hot Take of the Week: Is Maxi a bigger star than Wilfried Zaha?
By Brian Maurer - @BAMaurermedia
When Charlotte FC signed Wilfried Zaha, it was the first time the club had signed a true international Superstar. The impact was felt with national media buzz, press conferences that garnered large swathes of online engagement, and several class on-field performances.
However, the star around Zaha had a shadow as the loan spell ended and no sign of a new deal was in sight. The yellow cards and frustrations on the field mounted, and the lack of improved results during the 2025 postseason was another difficult pill for Charlotte fans to swallow. Especially since the club showed little improvement in the attacking third during their playoff series versus New York City FC. A playoff round in which Zaha was supposed to be a pivotal piece to help the team advance.
Allan Saint-Maximin has come to Charlotte with a similar star quality to Zaha, and a presence that has also drawn national buzz. Maxi is yet to participate in a postseason, so how bright he shines will ultimately be decided in the MLS playoffs, but his start and an improved attack provide a sign that Charlotte's new left winger could raise the level of the Crown on and off the field.
Charlotte fans also took to Maxi after he expressed a desire to be a part of the club's legacy. When you add that vision to what he has demonstrated he can do with the ball at his feet, his likability meter has notably increased. However, that can all come to a crashing halt if the playoffs do not go well.
Arguments for Wilfried Zaha being Charlotte FC's Top All-Time Star
Massive social presence.
Had a tendency to go viral in Charlotte for both the right and wrong reasons, adding gravity to what he did in and around the club.
Was more directly involved in goals.
Arguments for Allan Saint-Maximin being Charlotte FC's Top All-Time Star
He also has a massive social presence.
Has been well received because he has expressed a desire to be a part of Charlotte's long-term legacy.
Has had an impact on improving Charlotte FC's overall attacking numbers as a team.
