TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa Bay Sun FC announced that midfielder Darya Rajaee has returned to Lexington SC after Lexington recalled her from her loan with the Sun, bringing her time in Tampa Bay to a close.

Rajaee joined the Sun on loan from Lexington on August 11 ahead of the 2026 Gainbridge Super League Fall Season. Lexington originally loaned Rajaee to Tampa Bay for the Fall Season, and after the club recalled her, she will now return to Lexington.

Though her time in Tampa Bay was brief, Rajaee made an immediate impact with the Sun, quickly becoming a valued member of the midfield and earning the respect of her teammates and staff.

Rajaee made her Tampa Bay debut in the club’s 2026 Fall Season opener against Dallas Trinity FC and went on to contribute during the Sun’s opening stretch of the season. Her most notable contribution came in Tampa Bay’s 2-1 victory over Carolina Ascent FC, when she provided the assist on Sydny Nasello’s game-winning goal, helping the Sun secure three points on the road.

“Darya made an immediate impact on our group, not only with her quality on the field, but with the person she was every day. She earned the respect of our players and staff incredibly quickly and brought a great energy and mentality to our environment. I have no doubt she has a future in coaching when her playing days are done. We loved having her in Tampa Bay and wish her nothing but success back at Lexington,” said Sun FC Head Coach Denise Schilte-Brown.

Sun FC President and General Manager Christina Unkel echoed those sentiments, highlighting Rajaee’s impact both on and off the field during her time with the club.

“While Darya’s time in Tampa Bay was brief, the impact she made was immediate. She is an incredible person who brought positivity, professionalism and a great energy to our club every day. We’re grateful for everything she contributed, both on the field and within our team environment. We were fortunate to have Darya with us, and we wish her nothing but the best as she returns to Lexington,” said Unkel.

Rajaee originally signed with Lexington in February 2026 after previously playing for Fort Lauderdale United FC. During Lexington’s championship-winning campaign, she started all but one of the club’s matches and recorded 812 minutes and one goal.

Now returning to Lexington, Rajaee leaves Tampa Bay after making an immediate impression during her short stint with the Sun. Her contributions on the field, along with her energy and presence within the team, made her a valued member of the club.

Tampa Bay Sun FC thanks Darya for her time and contributions to the club and wishes her continued success with Lexington SC.