Malian center Merhaba Coulibaly, a standout player in both the Women's League and the EuroLeague, will not be returning to Spar Girona next season. The player, who first came to Catalonia to play for Femení Sant Adrià and later for Joventut, has established herself as a key figure, earning the MVP award for the Women's League.
Coulibaly's financial demands and specific conditions make it impossible for the Girona club to retain her. Reports suggest her salary could exceed 160,000 euros, a figure beyond the reach of many teams. One of her primary requests is to be allowed to leave after the EuroLeague Final Six concludes, without having to participate in the domestic league playoffs.
Turkish club Galatasaray, a leading European team, appears to be the most likely destination for the player. Coulibaly recently lost the EuroLeague final to their rivals, Fenerbahçe. This season, the Malian player finished as the competition's second-highest scorer with 17.4 points and a valuation of 21.6. In the EuroLeague, she averaged 15.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 17.3 valuation in her debut season.
Spar Girona, coached by Roberto Iñíguez, is already seeking alternatives to strengthen their inside game. They have signed Turkish international Tilbe Senyurek, Iyana Martín, and Juana Camilión. Meanwhile, Marta Canella will be part of the new project at Avenida.
