Gabriel Péc LA Galaxy Forward #11 Performance Highlights and Impact Analysis

Gabriel Péc, rocking that number 11 for LA Galaxy, is a guy you just can’t ignore if you’re following Major League Soccer these days. He arrived from Brazil’s Vasco da Gama and, wow, he wasted no time—he grabbed the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year award right out of the gate.

He’s got pace, technical chops, and can play both winger and attacking mid. That’s a combo that’s brought a jolt of energy and fresh options to the Galaxy’s attack.

At only 24, Péc looks and plays like someone with a lot more mileage than you’d expect. LA Galaxy locked him up with a five-year deal, showing real belief in his future and hoping to squeeze every ounce of potential from him.

You can see his impact in the numbers: 33 games played, 30 as a starter, and he’s always popping up on the scoresheet. If you want to dig deeper into his backstory, check out his LA Galaxy profile and MLS page.

Here’s a quick look at Gabriel Péc’s 2024 season numbers:

Statistic	Value
Games Played	33
Games Started	30
Position	Forward / Winger
Age	24

Whether you’re a diehard Galaxy supporter or just scouting the next big thing in MLS, Gabriel Péc is a must-watch every time he’s on the pitch.

Gabriel Péc at LA Galaxy

Gabriel Péc’s arrival really changed the mood at LA Galaxy. After a few tough seasons, the club finally found a spark.

You can see how his signing, his new role up front, and his ability to adapt quickly have made him one of the most important players in the squad.

Signing as a Young Designated Player

LA Galaxy brought in Gabriel Péc in 2024 as a Young Designated Player. That move let the club invest in some serious international talent without burning a senior DP slot.

At 23, straight out of Brazil, he fit the MLS strategy—young, with upside and resale value. His transfer felt like a bold roll of the dice on youth, didn’t it?

Fans and analysts buzzed about the move, hoping it could kickstart a fresh era after years of underwhelming results. The five-year contract showed Galaxy’s commitment—they wanted Péc as a centerpiece through 2028.

He brought speed, creativity, and slotted right into the club’s push for a younger, more energetic roster. You can see the trend: more South American players are using MLS as a launchpad, and Péc is right in the middle of that wave.

Role as Forward and Squad Number

Gabriel Péc lines up as a forward for LA Galaxy, rocking the number 11. He’s mostly a right winger, using his speed and skills to stretch defenses and create chances.

You notice how he moves—he’s always looking to break a game open from the flanks. In his first season, he put up 12 goals and 12 assists in 29 games. That’s a heck of a debut, and it put him among the top contributors in the club and the league.

That performance earned him the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year award. Clearly, he’s made his mark.

Here’s his 2024 stat line with LA Galaxy:

Statistic	Total
Appearances	33
Starts	30
Goals	12
Assists	12
Minutes Played	2,600+

Integration into the Team

Gabriel Péc settled into MLS almost instantly. His language skills and soccer IQ helped him find his feet in Los Angeles.

The coaching staff experimented to find his sweet spot on the pitch, and they gave him the freedom to attack and link up with the team’s other creative players.

Teammates praised his work ethic and attitude. That earned him trust in the locker room right away.

Fans loved his flair and hustle, and he quickly became a fan favorite. His presence helped LA Galaxy compete at a higher level, pushing the club back into playoff talk and raising the bar for the 2028 season.

You could see the team’s improvement—Péc’s influence showed up in the chemistry, not just in the goals. For more stats, hit up his player profile.

2024 MLS Season Achievements

Gabriel Péc wasted no time making his presence felt in the 2024 MLS season. Honestly, his knack for scoring and creating chances put him in the spotlight right away.

Individual Performances and Statistics

Fans watched Gabriel Péc quickly become a force up front. In his debut MLS season, he played 33 matches, started 30, and delivered some eye-popping numbers for a rookie.

Key 2024 Stats:

Category	Stats
Appearances	33
Starts	30
Goals	16
Assists	14
Goal Contributions	30

With 16 goals and 14 assists, Péc finished as one of the league’s most productive attackers. He often showed up in clutch moments, either scoring or setting up teammates, and really drove the Galaxy attack.

He and Joseph Paintsil became the first newcomers in club history to hit double digits in both goals and assists in their first MLS seasons. Péc’s ability to impact matches—whether finishing or passing—gave fans plenty to cheer about.

MLS Newcomer of the Year Honors

Winning the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year really capped off his debut year. The league, the media, and his fellow players all recognized what he brought to the table, giving him nearly 38% of the vote.

He even outshined some big-name arrivals, like Luis Suárez, thanks to his speed, skill, and tactical smarts. That award really showed just how much of a difference-maker he was in 2024.

It wasn’t just about the stats—Péc changed the tempo and flow of games. In a year loaded with strong newcomers, that’s saying something.

MLS Cup Impact

When the playoffs rolled around, Péc stayed front and center for LA Galaxy. He kept finding the net and setting up goals when the pressure was on.

His pressing forced mistakes from defenses, opening up new chances for the Galaxy. The chemistry up front with his teammates made LA a nightmare matchup in every MLS Cup round.

In those big moments, he either set up game-winners or played a key role in the buildup to goals. His ability to perform under pressure really stood out.

All-Star and Awards

Péc’s strong play earned him a spot on the 2024 MLS All-Star roster, picked by head coach Wilfried Nancy. That’s respect from league coaches and staff—he was right there with the league’s best.

He was a finalist for multiple end-of-season awards, too. With his consistent output, Péc’s name kept coming up in Best XI talks.

Those honors helped build his reputation, and he proved he belonged in the MLS elite. That rookie campaign? It’s one for the books.

Key Matches and Highlights

Gabriel Péc’s season as LA Galaxy’s forward was loaded with big moments, clutch goals, and standout plays against tough Western Conference foes. His playmaking and finishing really made a difference in the biggest games.

Performance Against Vancouver Whitecaps

Against the Vancouver Whitecaps, Gabriel Péc showed off his skill and composure. He used his speed to find gaps and create chaos in the final third.

His tactical movement made him a nightmare to mark. He took up smart positions and forced Vancouver to adjust all night.

He racked up more touches in the box than in previous games and kept the pressure on Vancouver’s back line. Whenever he got the ball between the lines, the Galaxy attack started to hum.

His link-up play set up some great chances late in the second half.

Statistic	Value
Shots on Target	3
Key Passes	4
Dribbles Completed	5
Fouls Drawn	2

Even when he didn’t score, Péc’s influence was obvious. His work off the ball and patient play kept LA Galaxy in control.

Goals Versus St. Louis CITY SC

Péc’s performances against St. Louis CITY SC were highlight-reel material. He had one game where he dribbled through defenders and scored a solo stunner, putting Galaxy ahead at just the right time.

His confidence and vision let him cash in when St. Louis lost their shape. In that same match, his movement kept their defense guessing, opening space for others.

He created several good looks for himself and his teammates. That goal in particular drew praise for its technical quality and its impact on the game.

You can catch the clip of that run and finish against St. Louis on Fox Sports. Games like that have really built his reputation as a go-to guy in the attack.

Crucial Moments with Real Salt Lake

When LA Galaxy faced Real Salt Lake, Péc stepped up in the clutch. He kept his cool during high-tempo stretches and wore down Salt Lake’s midfield with sharp passing and smart movement.

He played a big role in the build-up to late goals, helping the team transition quickly and put defenders under pressure. In tight games that demanded patience, Péc’s knack for drawing fouls and keeping the ball made a difference.

He worked well with the Galaxy’s midfield trio, carving out chances even in crowded areas. His off-the-ball runs pulled defenders out of position, giving teammates space to operate.

Even if it didn’t always show up in the stats, those little things helped LA Galaxy grind out results against Real Salt Lake.

Background and Early Career

Gabriel Péc is a Brazilian forward who’s come a long way—from youth soccer in Brazil to top-flight action at Vasco da Gama, and now making waves in Major League Soccer with LA Galaxy.

His journey is a story of determination, adaptability, and technical skill.

Beginnings in Brazil

Let’s take it back to Petrópolis, Brazil—Gabriel Pec’s hometown. Born on February 11, 2001, Pec started out like so many kids, just kicking a ball around on dusty pitches, dreaming big.

He sharpened his skills with that classic Brazilian flair. Scouts caught on to his promise early on, and it didn’t take long for him to get noticed.

As a teenager, Pec joined the youth setup at CR Vasco da Gama. That’s one of Brazil’s legendary clubs, a place where young talent can grow.

He moved up the ranks with a mix of ambition and ability—Vasco saw it, fans saw it, and honestly, it was pretty obvious he had something special.

By 18, Pec found himself with Vasco’s senior squad. His steady performances and quick adjustment to the pro game really stood out.

Those early years in the youth teams gave him a solid technical foundation. You could see he was building toward something bigger.

Vasco da Gama Achievements

Once Pec broke into Vasco da Gama’s first team, he brought energy both on the wing and as an attacking midfielder. His versatility made him a real asset.

Coaches and fans praised his technical ability, vision, and dribbling. That’s the kind of skill set that gets people excited.

Over his time at Vasco, Pec played in more than 100 senior matches. He showed up in big league games, making his presence felt.

He often raced up the right flank, always looking to score or set up his teammates. That quickness? It’s hard to teach.

Key Vasco da Gama Stats:

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2021	31	3	2
2022	40	8	4
2023	35	5	6

During promotion campaigns and cup runs, Pec played a pivotal role. He earned a reputation for determination and consistency, quickly becoming a standout in Brazil’s Serie A.

Transition to Major League Soccer

Gabriel Pec’s journey took a new turn in early 2024 when he landed with the LA Galaxy. The club signed him as a Young Designated Player, signaling a big step for both sides.

LA Galaxy wanted more speed, energy, and technical ability up front, and Pec fit the bill. He wasted no time adapting to the pace and style of Major League Soccer.

By the middle of 2025, he had already made his mark—12 goals and 12 assists in 29 games. That’s not something you see every day, especially from a new arrival.

In Los Angeles, Pec wears the number 11 shirt. He usually lines up as a right winger, but he’s flexible enough to play anywhere across the front line.

His transition to MLS has really highlighted his maturity and work ethic. If you’re following the league, he’s definitely one to watch.

Want more on his move and his role with the club? Check out the LA Galaxy official page.

Playing Style and Contributions

Gabriel Pec brings more than just goals to the table. He’s the kind of forward who helps his teammates shine, too.

You can see his value in the way he fits into LA Galaxy’s attack. He works hard at both ends of the field, and that effort doesn’t go unnoticed.

Strengths as a Forward

Pec stands out with his technical skill and coolness in front of goal. Off the ball, his movement puts him in dangerous spots—he’s a real threat as both a scorer and a playmaker.

He loves taking defenders on one-on-one, using his speed and quick feet to create space. That’s just fun to watch.

If you dig into the numbers, they back up the hype. In the 2024 MLS season, Pec cracked the league’s top 10 for goal contributions—12 goals, 12 assists in 29 games.

Even at just 24, he plays with a maturity that’s rare. He reads the game well and makes smart decisions under pressure.

Season	Matches	Goals	Assists	Key Passes	Dribbles Won
2024	29	12	12	41	65

Pec’s ability to link play becomes crucial in high-pressure moments. He finds space, beats his marker, and opens up the field.

Attacking Partnerships

Pec isn’t just doing it alone—he’s got chemistry with teammates like Riqui Puig and Diego Fagundez. That gives the Galaxy’s attack a real edge.

Puig, pulling the strings in midfield, often finds Pec in dangerous areas. Their quick passing drags defenders out of position and creates chances.

When Pec and Fagundez combine, you’ll notice the timing of their runs. They just seem to know where the ball needs to go.

Pec drifts wide, stretching the back line and opening gaps for his partners. The Galaxy’s attack really benefits from these connections.

He’s not selfish, either. He’ll lay off the ball for an open teammate instead of forcing a shot. That unselfishness makes the whole forward line better.

Work Rate and Defensive Role

You get a full-package player in Pec, not just an attacker. He tracks back and helps his fullback shut down opposing wingers.

Unlike some forwards who disappear on defense, Pec presses high and wins the ball back. That often sparks a counterattack.

Coaches and analysts love his work rate. He times tackles well, intercepts passes, and forces mistakes from defenders.

Those defensive efforts add security for the back line. They also lead to fast transitions into attack.

Pec’s willingness to defend fits today’s winger mold. He balances attacking with tracking back, and that makes him reliable in every phase.

His intensity really sets the tone for the whole front line. Game after game, you know what you’re getting.

Future Prospects at LA Galaxy

Gabriel Pec has already made waves with the Galaxy. Both coaches and fans have taken notice.

Contract Through the 2028 MLS Season

Pec signed a five-year deal with LA Galaxy, keeping him in Los Angeles through the 2028 MLS season. That shows the club’s confidence in him.

He joined as a Young Designated Player, which means the team invested heavily—reportedly around $10 million, a club record.

Table: Gabriel Pec’s Key Contract Details

Detail	Value
Contract Length	5 years
Contract End	2028 MLS season
Designated Player Status	Yes (Young DP)
Reported Transfer Fee	~$10 million

With this long-term deal, Pec looks set to be a central figure in the Galaxy’s plans for years to come. That contract gives both him and the club time to grow—and maybe even catch the eye of European clubs down the line.

Potential for Further Honors and Awards

Gabriel Pec didn’t waste any time after landing in MLS. He grabbed the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year award right out of the gate, making a serious statement in his first season.

He put up 28 goal contributions and, believe it or not, finished with more assists than Lionel Messi. That’s not something you see every day—he stood out among the league’s best attackers.

Honestly, you’ve got to keep an eye on Pec for future honors. If he keeps this up, you’ll probably hear his name in the MLS Best XI, maybe even MVP talks.

The LA Galaxy’s attack really fits his style. They let him pile up stats, so you know he’ll stay in the mix for more awards.

He’s still young and holds that Young Designated Player tag. That means he’s got extra time—and, let’s be real, some extra pressure—to chase even bigger accolades.

If the Galaxy make a deep playoff run or push for a cup, that’ll only boost his case for more recognition. And if he keeps progressing, don’t be surprised if European clubs start sniffing around.

For more on Gabriel Pec’s performance and recognition, check out his 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year award.