San Diego FC acquires Gabriel Pirani from D.C. United
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San Diego FC has struck a deal with D.C. United to acquire attacking midfielder Gabriel Pirani. The current details of the deal are not yet public.
As the MLS world sleeps while the World Cup rages on, there’s plenty of work to do behind the scenes. San Diego FC is no exception.
Right now, they sit tenth in the Western Conference—three points out of a playoff qualifier and five points out of a playoff spot. Right now, if they want to have a season even close to last year, they need to make moves. This move evidently may have come at the perfect time.
With San Diego FC, Gabriel Pirani has a fresh start at a club that desperately needs a versatile attacking player.
Thankfully, Piarani is known for his versatility. He’s capable of playing both wings and is comfortable as both a midfielder and a forward. Most of his success has been due to his being a right-winger, which could be good for SDFC. Rather than a primary goal scorer, Pairini is a technical player who can create attack opportunities for the loaded San Diego offense.
The Brazil-born midfielder came to the United States on loan in 2023 after an exceptional run with Fluminense FC in Brazil, where he appeared in 24 matches, scoring two goals and winning the 2023 Copa Libertadores. That same year, he represented Brazil at the 2023 Pan American Games, an international tournament showcasing the world’s top U-22 players in the Americas, eventually bringing home the gold.
After scoring one goal in 10 appearances, D.C. United would invoke his buyout clause, signing him to a two-year deal. His contract includes a club option for 2026 and 2027.
Since then, he’s made 78 MLS regular-season appearances, scoring 14 goals and making four assists.
In the 2026 MLS season, he made seven appearances and scored none. He hasn’t been in D.C. United’s squad since spring.
Subsequently, rumors surrounding his future with his original club have circulated since May. Head Coach Rene Weiler made multiple comments surrounding his motivation and style of play. While it’s fair to have some reservations about the player, it’s equally plausible that a change of scenery will do well for Pirani.
