The Brazilian center back becomes the first player in Club history to earn the honor
Charlotte, NC (Thursday, September 28, 2023) – Crown Legacy FC defender João Pedro was named to the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Best XI, voted on by coaches and technical staff members around the league.
Pedro, known as JP by coaches and teammates, becomes the first player to earn an end-of-season award in Club history.
“We are thrilled that JP is receiving some well-earned recognition for his performance this season,” said Technical Director Bobby Belair. “JP’s hard-work and willingness to adapt to any circumstance has made him a key contributor on both ends of the pitch for the Club. We are excited to watch him and the rest of the squad in the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs as we look to bring home a trophy in our first season.”
Pedro, 20, was a mainstay in Crown Legacy FC’s lineup during the regular season, playing in 26 matches and recording over 2,000 minutes. Along with the rest of the CLFC backline, the Brazilian youth international was able to create one of the stoutest defenses in MLS NEXT Pro, conceding the least number of goals in the Eastern Conference and second-least overall.
Pedro contributed to the Club’s attack with two goals and three assists on the season. The center back also emerged as CLFC’s main set piece taker and showed his versatility as a player with his attacking prowess.
Crown Legacy FC acquired Pedro via loan with an option to purchase from Brazilian Club Atletico Paranaense on January 31, 2023.
CLFC will begin its fight for the MLS NEXT Pro Cup in the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Sunday, October 8 at 3 p.m. ET at Mecklenburg County Sportsplex in Matthews. For tickets and more information, click here.
For the full Best XI list and other regular season awards, click here.
