G. Pirani D.C. United Midfielder #10 Player Profile and 2025 Season Overview
Alright, soccer fans—if you’re watching Major League Soccer, you’ve probably caught Gabriel Pirani making things happen for D.C. United as midfielder number 10.
Pirani, a Brazilian talent born in 2002, now lines up as an attacking midfielder after D.C. United grabbed him from Santos FC. His vision and passing? Those have turned him into the guy you want on the ball when the club needs a jolt.
Pirani kicked off his journey at Santos, one of Brazil’s big-name clubs. Since landing in Washington, D.C., he’s fought his way into the lineup, bringing energy and a creative edge.
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You’ve probably seen him pop up in highlight reels. The club didn’t hesitate to lock him down with a permanent deal, showing they really believe in what he brings to the table. If you’re keeping tabs on his year, his profile and stats have all the live updates.
Here’s a snapshot of his numbers for D.C. United this season:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 22 | 4 | 3 | 1,650 |
Contents
G. Pirani at D.C. United
When Gabriel Pirani landed at D.C. United, the club got a technical midfielder with creative upside.
His transfer happened through the U22 Initiative, which made him a key building block for now and the future.
Key Performances and Impact
You saw Pirani’s influence in big moments. He scored a stoppage-time goal that saved a 1-1 draw for D.C. United, proving he can handle the heat.
His calmness late in games gives the team—and honestly, the fans—a little extra belief.
Looking over the regular season, Pirani’s passing accuracy and vision in the final third have pushed the attack forward. He fit in with his teammates right away and took over set-piece responsibilities.
As a #10, he finds open pockets, receives the ball, and sets up the strikers.
Season Statistics:
| Stat | 2024 Season |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 20 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Key Passes per Game | 2.1 |
| Passing Accuracy | 87% |
His stats aren’t always flashy, but wow, they’re steady. He’s a consistent presence, and that late goal against New England? Check out the full story in this D.C. United match report.
Role as Midfielder #10
Pirani rocks the #10 shirt, and that’s a big deal. You expect your #10 to control the ball, create chances, and link midfield to attack.
He does all that with a sharp first touch and quick decisions.
You’ll spot him dropping deep to start plays or drifting into space to shake defenders. He doesn’t duck out of defensive work, but his main game is driving forward and slipping those passes into the box.
His style fits D.C. United’s plan—quick ball movement, tempo control. With Pirani pulling the strings, the midfield feels more connected and the team transitions faster from defense to attack.
Significance of U22 Initiative Transfer
D.C. United signed Pirani permanently under the U22 Initiative after a loan from Santos FC. This move let the club bring in a young international without using a designated player slot, thanks to the league’s U22 Initiative mechanism.
For fans, it means D.C. United can invest in Pirani’s growth and still keep roster options open. He signed through 2025 with team options for two more years, giving everyone time to see him develop—or maybe even move on for a profit.
Using the U22 slot on Pirani shows D.C. United’s plan to blend youth and experience. The transfer fee, around $1.3 million, looks like a bargain for a player with both MLS and European upside.
This deal gives the club a solid piece to build around for the next few years.
Career Beginnings and Development
Gabriel Pirani’s rise in football? It’s the classic story of years grinding in Brazil’s youth system.
His journey with Santos FC, from academy to first team, shaped the midfielder you see now.
Youth Career at Santos FC
Here’s something cool—Gabriel Pirani joined the Santos FC Academy when he was just 10. Santos has a reputation for producing stars like Pelé and Neymar.
Pirani’s early days included local tournaments in São Paulo state, where he stood out for his quick feet and slick passing.
At the academy, coaches put him in attacking roles and praised his vision. He climbed the ranks, playing for the U-17s, then U-20s, often as the playmaker.
Training at Santos was tough. Pirani spent long hours sharpening his ball skills and learning the tactical side of Brazilian football.
By his late teens, he started popping up on national youth team radars because of his strong showings in youth competitions.
Professional Debut with Santos
Let’s talk about when Pirani broke through. On February 25, 2021, he made his professional debut for Santos, coming off the bench in a league match against Bahia.
He didn’t waste time—right away, he showed off his technical skills.
Just three days later, in his second match, Pirani scored his first professional goal in a 2-2 draw with EC Ferroviária. That early goal boosted his confidence and earned him some trust from the coaching staff.
Fans started noticing his calm under pressure and his sharp left foot.
Before long, Pirani became a regular in the squad. During his first season, he stood out for his passing, agility, and ability to handle big moments.
Transition to Senior Team
After his debut, Pirani earned more trust from the senior coaches. Throughout 2021, he moved from being a sub to a more regular starter.
His work rate and football IQ let him compete with older teammates.
Santos FC (2021 Season – Selected Stats):
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Série A | 30 | 2 | 3 |
| Copa Libertadores | 7 | 1 | 1 |
| Copa do Brasil | 5 | 0 | 1 |
His play in midfield helped Santos stay competitive in several tournaments, including the Brasileirão and Copa Libertadores.
Pirani’s performances often featured clever link-up play and an ability to draw fouls in dangerous spots. By the end of his first year, people saw him as one of the bright young midfielders coming through Santos.
Loan Spells and South American Success
Gabriel Pirani built his reputation with some key loan spells and big games in South America. Each stop along the way taught him something new, both on and off the field.
Time at Cuiabá
Pirani’s loan to Cuiabá in early 2023 gave us a look at his adaptability. He played in the Brazilian Série A and you could see him grow tactically.
He didn’t rack up goals, but his passing and decision-making improved.
Cuiabá trusted him to run the midfield attack. The coaches leaned on his ability to push the pace and pick out dangerous passes.
These games helped Pirani regain his confidence, especially in close matches.
Here’s his Cuiabá stat line:
| Season | Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Cuiabá | 12 | 1 | 2 |
This stint got him ready for the next level, sharpening his ability to handle pressure.
Fluminense Experience
Pirani’s move to Fluminense was a step up. Fluminense play for trophies and set a fast pace.
For fans, it meant watching Pirani take on bigger challenges every week.
In Fluminense’s midfield, Pirani carried more responsibility. He became known for quick turns, crisp passing, and helping out all over the pitch.
Because Fluminense gave young players a shot, Pirani saw real minutes, not just a seat on the bench.
He chipped in key assists, especially in high-stakes matches. Fans remember how he delivered a creative spark when the team needed it.
| Season | Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Fluminense | 15 | 2 | 4 |
What stands out from his Fluminense days? His coolness under pressure and agility against top clubs.
Copa Libertadores Triumph
Pirani’s run in the Copa Libertadores is a highlight. He faced top clubs from all over South America, soaking in the pressure and the wild atmospheres.
During the tournament, Pirani’s creativity in midfield gave Fluminense a boost. His confidence grew each game as he matched the pace and physicality of the competition.
He created chances and kept the ball moving when things got tense. You saw a player who could adapt, thrive in the spotlight, and deliver in international games.
Here’s a quick look at his Copa Libertadores numbers:
| Year | Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Fluminense | 6 | 1 | 2 |
That impact on Fluminense’s Libertadores campaign? It really showed he was ready for bigger things.
International Representation
Gabriel Pirani’s rise also includes some big moments with Brazil’s youth squad. He’s stepped up on big stages and built a reputation as a reliable playmaker for his country.
Brazil U23 and Pan American Games Victory
Let’s talk about Gabriel Pirani—D.C. United’s number 10. His influence? It goes way beyond Major League Soccer.
Brazil’s U23 national team called him up. That says a lot about his skill and steady performances.
The big moment? The 2023 Pan American Games. Pirani stepped up in Brazil’s midfield.
He helped the squad grab the gold medal. Pirani’s vision and movement broke down some stubborn defenses in both the group stage and knockout rounds.
Tournament Appearances
| Tournament | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pan American Games | 6 | 1 | 2 | Gold Medal |
You watched him thrive under the bright lights and tournament pressure. He dictated tempo and linked play from deep, making it look easy at times.
He read the game well and connected with Brazil’s forwards. That sort of poise made him stand out in a championship run.
Notable International Performances
Getting the Brazil U23 call-up? That put Pirani right among the country’s most promising young talents.
He usually started as the attacking midfielder, working on both sides of the ball.
During the Pan American Games, Pirani shined brightest in the semifinal. He delivered a crucial assist and played a big part in getting Brazil to the final.
Coaches loved his decision-making and composure. His passing accuracy in those high-stakes moments? Just top notch.
Against tough South American squads, Pirani managed to dictate play and handle defensive duties without losing his cool. He’s shown he can handle international standards—D.C. United fans and Brazilian supporters have every reason to keep an eye on his next move.
Playing Style and Contributions
Let’s break down his style. Pirani wears number 10 and brings a creative spark to D.C. United.
He mixes deft touches with strong field vision. That makes him the go-to playmaker in the final third.
Technical Strengths as a Midfielder
You see it every match—Pirani’s first touch is sharp. He keeps possession with quick feet, even in tight spots.
Defenders close in, but he doesn’t blink. Pirani’s left foot whips in accurate through balls and crisp passes, pushing the attack forward.
During transitions, his dribbling stands out. He glides past defenders, opening up lanes for teammates.
That often sparks counterattacks or draws fouls in dangerous areas. Pirani rarely loses his cool, even when the pressure’s on.
His skills show up in the stats, too. In the 2024 MLS season, Pirani played 33 matches and scored 6 goals for D.C. United.
Check out his main contributions below:
| Season | Matches | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 33 | 6 | 8 | 2,540 |
Key Attributes and On-Field Influence
Pirani’s vision sets him apart. He’s always scanning the field, picking out spaces before they even open.
He finds those pockets between defenders and knows just when to speed things up or slow them down.
His work rate? It’s steady and reliable. Pirani doesn’t just attack—he hustles back to press and support the defense.
He’s aware in transition, helping the team win the ball back fast.
Set pieces? That’s another trick up his sleeve. He takes free kicks and corners, putting dangerous balls into the box and giving D.C. United an edge on dead-ball plays.
His awareness, work ethic, and technique make him a key piece in United’s midfield. He impacts both sides of the game.
Want more stats and details? Check out his player profile on FootyStats.
Statistical Overview and Career Highlights
Gabriel Pirani has built a solid reputation as D.C. United’s number 10. His technical skill and steady play have made a mark in both club and youth international games, from Brazil to MLS.
Appearances and Goals
Pirani started out with Santos FC. He played over 50 senior matches and scored several important goals in Brazil’s Série A.
He also spent time with Fluminense and Cuiabá. Those stints helped him adapt and develop his game sense.
After joining D.C. United, Pirani became a regular starter. He’s logged over 30 appearances and scored some clutch goals when it mattered most.
He’s also racked up key assists and keeps creating attacking chances for his teammates.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santos FC | 53 | 5 | 6 |
| Fluminense | 13 | 0 | 1 |
| Cuiabá | 11 | 1 | 0 |
| D.C. United | 32 | 4 | 5 |
He keeps growing as a midfield leader, contributing on both ends of the pitch.
Club and International Records
Gabriel Pirani stands out for his versatility, performing in both domestic and international competitions.
He played in the Copa Libertadores with Santos FC, gaining valuable experience against top South American clubs.
Short spells at Fluminense and Cuiabá added some tactical depth to his game.
With D.C. United, Pirani adapted quickly to MLS. You can see his steady numbers on the D.C. United player profile page.
He’s made an impact in league play and the U.S. Open Cup.
At the youth level, Pirani represented Brazil’s under-20 squad. He played in tournaments like the Pan American Games.
That early international exposure helped him mature and sharpen his game.
Awards and Milestones
You look at Pirani’s career and see a steady stream of achievements, even if he hasn’t always made the headlines. In Brazil, he picked up several Team of the Week nominations in Série A and grabbed valuable minutes as a young starter in some pretty intense matches.
His move to MLS? That opened up a whole new set of chances. After officially signing with D.C. United from Santos FC, Pirani jumped right into the starting lineup. He’s helped fuel playoff pushes and has stepped up with match-winning performances when the pressure’s on.
He hasn’t lifted a major club trophy yet—yeah, that’s still on the to-do list. But you can’t miss the way he keeps growing, racking up milestones, and making his presence felt on the field. Fans and analysts keep noticing his adaptability and sharp technique, and honestly, it feels like he’s just getting started.
