After a successful stint with English championship side Barnsley, Daryl Dike has returned to Major League Soccer ready to dominate with Orlando City SC. His first game back looked forward twice in a triumphant 5-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes.
Before his arrival, rumors swirled about Dike’s future at Barnsley, as most suspected that the English side would offer a full contract. To the surprise of fans and head coach Oscar Pareja, Barnsley refused the call option and returned the player to his MLS roots after the loan.
Pareja expressed his joy at having Dike back in the squad. During the game against San Jose, Pareja immediately noticed Dike’s improved manner and went away with his ability to acclimatize quickly with his teammates in Orlando.
“We are delighted to have Daryl back after his stay in England and the national team. He came not long ago and now he is joining the team again and such an achievement so we are happy. I think he has improved in many things, his “Maturity is very clear,” said Pareja. “His movements are solid. I can see the contacts he makes with his teammates, with Chris Mueller, and it makes more sense, the game itself.”
During the post-match conference, Dike commented on his improved form after individuals noted his performances in England.
Does he mark his return to @ExploriaStadium in style? @Rasmussen | @DarylDike | #ORLvSJ pic.twitter.com/FdWyqFy4dO
– Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) June 23, 2021
“Every training session, whether it has been loaned out or with the national team and comes back here, I have always made sure that I have improved,” Dike said in his post-match press conference. “For me to be able to find space, my movement and how I work with the guys around me, it’s something I’ve always said to myself that I want to improve, of course the technology and finishing as always.”
Pareja talked a lot about Dike’s ability to easily return to the team. Going forward, he managed to adapt to new lineups before taking advantage of new opportunities.
“Having guys around me, leaders like Nani around me and other guys you know make it a lot easier, of course,” Dike said.
In addition to his recent club success, Dike has been named to the USMNT list for the upcoming Gold Cup.
