Gabriel Pec Named 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year

Gabriel Pec of the LA Galaxy has been awarded the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year, marking him as the first Galaxy player to receive the honor since Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2018. Acquired from Vasco da Gama for approximately $10 million, the 23-year-old winger made a significant impact in his debut season, scoring 16 goals and providing 14 assists in 33 matches. Pec's performance was crucial in helping the Galaxy secure the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference and qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs. He also became the youngest player in MLS history to achieve at least 15 goals and 10 assists in a season, and one of only four players to record 30 goal contributions in a single campaign. Pec surpassed notable nominees including Luis Suárez and Luca Orellano in the voting process, which involved MLS technical staff, media, and players. The Galaxy will also compete in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, bolstered by Pec's standout contributions.