Lion Links: 1/23/20

Good morning, Mane Landers! We’re on the downward slope to the weekend, so let’s jump right into the links.

Daryl Dike Looking to Young Players for Guidance

Much like being the new kid in class, Daryl Dike was nervous and had to tell himself to relax as training started. But he’s settling in and spending time with other young Lions who came in last season to learn the ropes.

“I had to remind myself that everybody is here because they enjoy playing soccer,” Dike said. “That’s one of the best one of the main things [I had to do,] was to just allow myself to relax, have fun and enjoy my time here.”

“He’s a special player for sure,” said teammate Kamal Miller. “His size, his strength, his physicality, it’s something most teams don’t have on their team. He’s probably one of the biggest and fast forwards in the league, so now it’s just adjusting to the game from the college level.” 

Orlando Pride Trade Dani Weatherholt

The Orlando Pride announced yesterday that Dani Weatherholt has been traded to Reign FC for a second-round draft pick.

“On behalf of everyone at the Orlando Pride, I want to thank Dani for her contributions to the club these last four seasons,” Pride General Manager Erik Ustruck said in a club press release. “Dani has been an integral part of the Pride, both within the team and within the community, and we’ll miss having her in purple. We wish her the best of luck in this next chapter ahead with the Reign.”

Orlando Pride Interested in 17-year-old Yaya

According to reports, a representative for São Paulo FC confirmed the Pride are interested in 17-year-old Vitória Yaya, but emphasized that the midfielder has a contract until the middle of 2021. Figures have not been revealed, but if the deal is closed, the Pride will have to pay the fines outlined in the current contract (a.k.a. a transfer fee). The midfielder has been part of São Paulo’s main squad since 2019.

Bumble and Bumble Beauty Deal

Orlando Pride’s Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger have signed their first beauty deal with the brand Bumble and Bumble.

“Sports have been cut out of the beauty conversation for too long—we want to merge that gap,” explains Harris. “Bumble and Bumble has always been on the cutting edge of what’s different. It’s a nonconforming brand, and we want to show that beauty takes on many forms and should be celebrated within sports.”

Free Kicks

• Alex De John and wife, Lisa welcomed their son Madden Michael De John on Tuesday.

• Robin Jansson arrives to training and with this cold weather the Swede is feeling right at home!

• NWSL coaches react to the 2020 draft.
• FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the United States is “on the verge of becoming a great soccer power.” 
• USL League Two welcomes FC Bascome Bermuda. The club will offer development opportunities for young players in Bermuda.
• Jozy Altidore could be in hot water.

• The NBA’s Giannis Antetokounmpo has some foot skills too.

• Be right back, I’m re-evaluating my life choices.

That’ll do it for me today, Mane Landers. Have a great rest of the week and stay safe out there.