Gabriel Pec’s breakout year at LA Galaxy, dreams of MLS showdown against Messi | OneFootball

The still-new Gabriel Pec arrived in the United States as export talent, but he went further: he became the LA Galaxy sensation and one of the biggest revelations in the 2024 MLS season. With an already speaking performance for itself, Pec won prizes and put his name alongside sports legends. Let's go in-depth with this stellar journey and the impact of Pec on MLS.

Pec entered LA Galaxy with a lot of expectations, and the Brazilian did not disappoint. Having joined in January, he rapidly became important to the Los Angeles side. His direct influence in each game has been quite impressive, as he scores 17 goals with 18 assists in 35 games. According to Pec, his experience in Vasco helped him build "toughness" that prepared him for the pressure of an international league.

I owe so much to Vasco, because it toughened me up, you know? The huge fan base, the pressure. You always have to stay sharp; every game feels like a game of your life. That got me prepared," he told ge.globo.

Admits Pec himself, at Galaxy he was finally able to play more offensively. On the other side, while with Vasco, he needed to be more 'defensive' or tactical. In Los Angeles, however, that dimension changed.

During my time at Vasco, I had to drop back a lot to help with marking. Here I developed my joyful side in soccer, that Brazilian style of dribbling: more goals, more assists."

Vancouver Whitecaps FC v Los Angeles Galaxy / Ronald Martinez/GettyImages

Pec vs. Suárez: Winning MLS Signing of the Year

With a forceful arrival, Pec beat out none other than Inter Miami's Luis Suárez for MLS Signing of the Year. He garnered 37.53% of the vote-a recognition of his high-level performance throughout his first season in Major League Soccer. Pec recalls being a child, watching Suárez star next to Messi and Neymar, and it's not too hard to detect his excitement.

When I was young, I'd watch Suárez on TV-on that Barcelona team with Messi, Suárez, Neymar. So to be able to compete for an award with Suárez and take it home, I don't even have words.

He has captured the hearts of the fans and sports media with an average contribution of one goal per game, having the charisma of a young Brazilian player. This is even more impressive since he stole the show from icons already known to the world.

Los Angeles, New Chapter

Off the pitch, Pec found his new home in Los Angeles, a city that evokes a dream come true. Since his arrival in town, he has embraced the local culture, and the city has welcomed him with open arms. Pec was quite fascinated with the city's lifestyle and did not need an invitation to visit its iconic sites.

"I never thought I'd be saying I live in Los Angeles. That Hollywood sign, I only saw it in movies. First thing I did was go see it up close, get to know it, take a picture."

Los Angeles is not only a city of movie stars, but also one of the capitals of soccer in the United States. LA Galaxy is considered one of the most respected clubs, and Pec has quickly fallen into its traditions and the support of its fans. He has related so well to this passionate and multicultural fanbase that recognizes and embraces his Brazilian energy.

The rivalry with Inter Miami and the dream of facing Messi

When Pec made his MLS debut, he was granted an opportunity against Inter Miami to share the pitch with soccer icons, one of which was none other than Lionel Messi. The moment, however, was filled with the young Brazilian's shyness because he was still trying to adapt to the new environment. Now, he has one new goal: meeting Messi again in the final of the MLS Cup.

I confess that if I'd been here longer, I would've gone up to Messi and asked for his jersey. But I was a bit shy. Maybe in an MLS final? Galaxy vs. Miami. I'd definitely go up to him, shake his hand.

Pec speaks with great enthusiasm about the possibility of a final between Galaxy and Miami. Meeting Messi in the context of a decisive MLS match means not only the peak of his career but also Brazilian soccer's triumph over the American league.

Gabriel Pec's Growth and Future in the MLS

Los Angeles Galaxy v Colorado Rapids / Shaun Clark/GettyImages

Now that Gabriel Pec has just started with LA Galaxy and Major League Soccer, he's been overcoming some challenges as soon as he stepped foot on the pitch at Dignity Health Sports Park. Along with the rest of his international teammates, Pec has emerged in taking advantage of every opportunity.

"Vasco gave me the confidence to come here. The club placed their trust in me, in my soccer."

He got recognition also from the Signing of the Year award, and in support from his teammates and coaching staff. To Pec, Los Angeles and Galaxy is a place to be for development encircled by an excellent facility and a solid close-knit group.

Life off the Field and Fan Support

Though already a star for LA Galaxy, his time in the stands with the fans was highly contrasting to what he had grown up with in Brazil. He did note the respect and privacy given by fans to players outside of the stadium, something that did impress him.

"In Brazil, it is different; the fans, even from other clubs come and talk with you. Here, they realize that it is a person who respects them with something like: 'Oh, he is at the store doing his shopping for the house; I will not disturb him.'

Respect for the personal life of the players is indeed a singular difference Pec values, although he confesses to miss the frenzy of passion from Brazilian fans. He also said that Galaxy fans were "very spirited during games" but respect his personal life outside the stadium.

MLS: A Fertile Ground for International Soccer

In an interview with Olé, Gabriel Pec maintains his confidence in the growth of the MLS and perceives the league as fertile ground for soccer. He perceives that a growing number of players are interested in coming to the United States and that the presence of big stars such as Messi further promotes the league.

"Sometimes, I do see those comments, too, but I think that people say it without really knowing. how competitive the MLS is. In my opinion, in this league we have the best player in the world, which is Lionel Messi."

To Pec, MLS is the rich environment for any player's development, considering how tactically the league has grown. The confidence in the growth of soccer here in the U.S. only reinforces his commitment to contributing to the sport locally.