FC Dallas signs rising Brazilian star Pedrinho after MLS NEXT Pro heroics | OneFootball

FC Dallas made the correct move by signing Brazilian midfielder Pedro Martins, known as Pedrinho, a talent ready to make that big jump. With a contract guaranteed through 2025 and options to extend for 2026 and 2027, Pedrinho joins the Texas-based squad as an international roster addition after a historic season in MLS NEXT Pro with North Texas SC, the club's affiliate.

At just 21 years of age, the midfielder brings into Dallas not only flair and skill, which is expected from any Brazilian player, but also some impressive numbers that justify the bet on him. His performance last season was under the spotlight, especially after leading North Texas SC to the MLS NEXT Pro Cup title, where he scored a decisive stoppage-time winner in the final.

Impact of Pedrinho in MLS NEXT Pro

If there is any doubt over Pedrinho's potential, the numbers do the talking. He set a club record in the 2024 season with 26 goal contributions, scoring 13 goals and providing 13 assists to show he can finish and create plays. Add to that the four match-winning goals the young Brazilian registered, proving when the game was on the line, Pedrinho stepped up and delivered.

The high point of his season came in the final of the MLS NEXT Pro Cup against Philadelphia Union II, as Pedrinho scored a winning goal deep into stoppage time with the match on a knife's edge, securing the championship for North Texas SC. It was a moment that showed not only his technical ability but also how cool and determined he can be under pressure in decisive situations-qualities every club looks for in a midfielder.

Talent that took shape at the Brazilian school Pedro Martins was one of the early starters. At just nine years old, he made his move to Flamengo's academy, one of the more famous talent conduits in Brazil. At Flamengo, Pedrinho's game was honed and perfected as the modern midfielder he is.

In 2021, he penned his first professional deal with Flamengo and his debut for the senior team arrived in September 2023 when he came into a Série A match against Goiás in the 72nd minute. While his chances with the senior squad were very few, Pedrinho starred in the Campeonato Brasileiro Sub-20. He made 17 appearances in that competition, scoring seven goals and netting one hat-trick in the regular season.

Looking to earn more experience, Pedrinho spent the 2022 season on loan at Azuriz, a Série D club, where he scored one goal in seven games. While brief, that stint was crucial for his growth, forcing him to adapt to challenges and fight for his place-valuable experiences for a young player still shaping his career.

Why did FC Dallas bet on Pedrinho?

The answer is pretty straightforward: numbers, undeniable talent, and a winning mentality. Pedrinho has already shown he can produce on the field. His performance in MLS NEXT Pro solidified his readiness for the next challenge in Major League Soccer.

Beyond the numbers, this signing is also a strategic move. Brazilian players have always had success in MLS, and by bringing in a young, ascending talent like Pedrinho, FC Dallas is investing not just in immediate results but in a player who holds significant long-term value. With MLS still growing, Pedrinho has a golden opportunity to thrive in a league that emphasizes young, dynamic players who can make an impact.

Not exactly a gamble, Pedrinho arrives at FC Dallas more of a calculated decision and could start immediately-a player with the abilities, experience, and ceiling to make his mark on MLS.