West Bromwich Albion striker Daryl Dike has signed off from The Hawthorns with a heartfelt letter to the Baggies faithful. The American frontman’s contract expired on June 30, leaving him a free agent this summer.

What did Daryl Dike say?

Dike’s message praised Albion fans for standing by him through “setback after setback and defeat after defeat.” He wrote: “From the day I arrived in England, you were by my side, helping me live out a dream. Representing this club and wearing the Albion shirt was a privilege that I never took for granted.”

The striker turned 26 last month. He made just 25 starts in 66 appearances for Albion, with at least five major injury setbacks—including two ruptured Achilles tendons. His £7m move from Orlando City in January 2022 ended with 11 goals in total, including two late last season to help James Morrison’s side survive.

Why did the exit hit hard?

Dike’s final memory for many fans is being carried off in tears at Ipswich’s Portman Road. His emotional letter underlined how close he came to delivering on his promise. “Everyone knows how badly I wanted to succeed here,” he wrote. “I gave everything I had.”

West Bromwich Albion sit 21st in the Championship with 51 points from 46 games—44 behind Coventry—and recent form of one loss, two draws, one win, one loss. They’ve scored 48 and conceded 58 this season.

What’s next for Dike?

The forward stressed his time at Albion shaped him as a person. “This journey helped me grow,” he said. “It gave me unforgettable memories, incredible experience and friendships that will last a lifetime.” He leaves as a free agent seeking a fresh start elsewhere.

West Bromwich Albion will kick off their next campaign with a new striker hunt after Dike’s departure. The club’s summer rebuild continues amid a tough Championship fight for survival.