LA Galaxy forward Gabriel Pec has been crowned the 2024 MLS Newcomer of the Year, marking his impact as the most influential new player with prior professional experience in the league. The accolade recognizes Pec's exceptional performance since his arrival in January from Vasco da Gama in Brazil in a deal reportedly worth $10 million. At just 23 years old, Pec signed a Young Designated Player contract and showcased his talent by leading the Galaxy in scoring with 16 goals and 14 assists across 33 matches.

Forming a formidable attacking partnership with Riqui Puig, Dejan Joveljić, and Joseph Paintsil, Pec proved to be a standout player, becoming the fourth-youngest MLS player to achieve over 30 goal contributions in a single season. He also holds the record as the youngest player to amass at least 15 goals and 10 assists in an MLS campaign, excluding the shootout era.

Pec's stellar contributions propelled LA Galaxy to secure the Western Conference No. 2 seed in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, accumulating 64 points and scoring a conference-best 69 goals. As a result of their successful season, the Galaxy will compete in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup.

This distinguished honor makes Pec only the second LA Galaxy player to receive the award, following in the footsteps of Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2018. Despite stiff competition from finalists Luis Suárez of Inter Miami CF and Luca Orellano of FC Cincinnati, Pec emerged as a deserving winner of the coveted title, as voted by MLS club technical staff, media representatives, and current players.

Supportive comments flooded social media platforms to celebrate Pec's achievement, with fans praising his exceptional skills and undeniable impact on the field. The consensus reflected a widespread acknowledgment of Pec's electrifying performances throughout the season, solidifying his status as a standout talent in MLS.

LA Galaxy fans and neutrals alike acknowledged Pec's excellence, with many highlighting his outstanding contributions that were crucial in the team's success. Pec's remarkable journey to winning the Newcomer of the Year award has been celebrated by supporters and observers, underscoring his significance in the MLS landscape.