Gabriel Pec completes six months in the United States with a lot of support from Los Angeles Galaxy fans.
Translated by Celso Oliveira
Gabriel Pec is living a sensational moment in the United States. Pec already has nine goals and seven assists in 22 matches played for the Galaxy, leading the team to 3rd place in the Western Conference in Major League Soccer, with 43 points – the 5th best overall campaign in the league.
Gabriel Pec, getting to know the Brazilian winger
Gabriel became the most expensive signing in Los Angeles Galaxy’s history, as Pec cost the American club 10 million dollars (49 million reais).
Nonetheless, the Brazilian youngster has been meeting all expectations on the field. He was named the best player of Los Angeles Galaxy in April and June.
With 16 direct goal contributions, Pec leads the Galaxy in this category, tied with forward Dejan Joveljic, who also has 16.
His recent form is also very impressive, with 5 goals and 3 assists in the last 6 matches. He is increasingly becoming a key player in the squad.
The Brazilian had a chat with reporter Tiago Brandão, for Território MLS, talking about his good form and his adaptation to the United States.
How has your adaptation to the United States been? Do you already feel “at home”?
A sublime assist from Mauricio Cuevas, the finish from Gabriel Pec. 🔥
The @LAGalaxy 's 90th-minute game winner is your @CelsiusOfficial Energy Moment of the Matchday. pic.twitter.com/MMPm1xglx6
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 9, 2024
“My adaptation has been very good. I was very well received by the club, my teammates, and the fans. I am increasingly happy to be here.”
The Galaxy is having a great campaign in 2024 and you are an important part of this team. What do you think was essential for such a quick adaptation?
“I believe that the good environment in the group helps in this regard. When we have a good relationship, things on the field flow more easily.”
At the beginning of the year, Riqui Puig commented on your arrival and said he was looking forward to this partnership. How has your relationship with the Spaniard been?
“Riqui is a great player, and with each match, we are getting to know each other and connecting more. I am happy that together we are helping the Galaxy. I hope we can continue like this.”
You have already faced San Jose Earthquakes and LAFC – the two rivals of the Galaxy. How do you see this rivalry? Was it a different experience for you?
“These are very important matches for our team and fans and are always tough games. The matches tend to be a bit more heated on the field.”
Much is said about the difference between MLS and Brazilian soccer. Did you notice this difference? What did you find most different about soccer in the United States?
“These are countries with different cultures regarding soccer, and there are indeed differences. In Brazil, the games are more technical, while here it is quite physical and fast-paced. I was happy playing in my country, and I am happy here in the USA. That’s what matters. Both countries have great players, great coaches, and a strong league.”
Phillipe Coutinho is declaredly your idol since your childhood. At this moment, he is very close to returning to Vasco. Do you still follow the club? How do you see Coutinho’s arrival?
“I like Coutinho a lot, I think he is a great player, and if he really goes to Vasco, I will be very happy. Whenever I can, I follow the team’s matches. I am very grateful for everything Vasco has done for me.”
Gabriel Pec’s adaptation and already great performances in Major League Soccer reveal potential and immediate impact for the Los Angeles Galaxy attack. He also scored his first El Trafico goal, an important milestone despite the team’s loss to rival LAFC at the Rose Bowl, before scoring the winning goal this past weekend against Minnesota.