ORLANDO, Fla. (Feb. 1, 2021) — Orlando City SC forward Daryl Dike will join English side Barnsley F.C. on a short-term loan with a conditional right of recall, it was announced today. Barnsley, based in South Yorkshire, is a member of the EFL Championship, the second-highest division of soccer in England.
“Daryl had a tremendous rookie season with us here in Orlando, one that helped lead our Club to the postseason and, on a personal level, be rewarded with multiple call-ups to the U.S. Men’s National Team,” Orlando City EVP of Soccer Operations Luiz Muzzi said. “We believe this opportunity with Barnsley will present another step in his career, to not only develop in a new footballing environment, but to challenge himself in a new country and we’re excited for him to bring those learnings back to us here in Orlando.”
“Orlando has helped me so much in my career in such a short time, and working together to provide this opportunity for me is just another example of that,” Dike said. “I’m very grateful to have a deal that will be beneficial for both myself and the Club. I’m excited to continue my development and keep up my fitness while with Barnsley and look forward to bringing what I learn back to Orlando to continue our success here in MLS.”
Dike, 20, was selected by the Lions No. 5 overall in the 2020 MLS SuperDraft out of the University of Virginia. A finalist for AT&T MLS Young Player of the Year, Dike finished his rookie campaign with eight goals and four assists in 22 appearances across all competitions.
The Edmond, Okla., native made his U.S. Men’s National Team debut on Jan. 31, coming into the game as a second-half substitute against Trinidad & Tobago.
TRANSACTION: Orlando City SC forward Daryl Dike loaned to Barnsley F.C.
