Gabriel Pirani thrives in MLS and boosts DC United's success

Major League Soccer remains a gateway to many young Brazilian talents who plan the great improvements of their careers. The ex-Santos and Fluminense Gabriel Pirani arrives in the United States with DC United, already with the titular jersey of number 10. Like many other Brazilians who conquered their space in the American League, Pirani also comes tall and leaves his footprints in a very competitive environment.

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Arrival in MLS

Gabriel Pirani's arrival in MLS was widely expected. His move to DC United in July 2023 marked another chapter in his career. In a news interview with ESPN, the player spoke of the main differences between playing in the U.S. and Brazil: whereas most of the players are highly pressured in Brazilian soccer-most of them coming from highly enthusiastic fan bases-the environment in the U.S. is quite friendly and welcoming. For Pirani, that has been the turning point in his development. "The fans here are so much friendlier, and there's a lot less outside stress," Pirani said.

This kind of environment has allowed Pirani to focus on his growth on the field, with him taking full advantage of the stability to shine in a less emotionally charged setting. He says the shift has brought a sense of calm to his feet, feelings he may not have gotten in Brazil, where at times excess pressure and scrutiny get in the way of the player's performance.

Performance Putting DC United in the Playoff Hunt

Since coming to the MLS, Pirani has played for United 42 times and scored five goals. Those numbers may be modest at face value, but if you factor in his recent impact, then you can see the Brazilian is hitting his stride. In the last four games alone, Pirani scored twice in two very important goals that had helped United fight for a playoff spot.

As with any other high-performance sport, consistency is the surefire way to success in soccer, and Pirani thus far seems to be on his way to securing his spot in the league. With DC United attempting to relive old glories, the Brazilian has become a mainstay of this new era, providing not only goals but also class with his vision and technical ability on the pitch.

The Unforgettable Match against Messi

Of course, playing in a league full of stars is already great, but against Messi, it is entirely different. He once had the honor of sharing the same pitch as him and his team when DC United went head-to-head against Inter Miami. Even though they lost 1-0, Pirani said the occasion was unforgettable for the Brazilian. "I swapped jerseys with Busquets, but playing against Messi is something else; it's one of the best feelings that soccer can give you," he noted.

This is what MLS has in store for budding talent. In addition to playing against some of the huge soccer superstars on the planet, these professionals get to learn and develop their game with some of the great names in the sport.

A Close Bond with Fernando Diniz

Back in his homeland of Brazil, Pirani shares a very strong connection with coach Fernando Diniz. The turning point in his career came when working with Diniz for Santos and Fluminense. Pirani speaks fondly of the talks he had with his coach, which went far beyond soccer. Diniz valued the more personal side of his players highly, says Pirani. "He gave me advice on how to be a better person, not just a better player," Pirani reminisces.