Like Firmino: LAFC coach Bob Bradley praises forward Adrien Perez

Adrien Perez tight shot on the ball

He’s previously compared Carlos Vela to Lionel Messi and now LAFC coach Bob Bradley has mentioned forward Adrien Perez in the same breath as Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino.


Bradley was referencing the work Perez does when he tracks back and helps LAFC press centrally. That work, Bradley said, when it results in his club winning the ball, creates chances for wide attacking players.


It’s similar to what Firmino does for Sadio Mane and Mo Salah, according to Bradley.


“You try to just use that as an example to a player like Adrien that he can use so that everyday he’s got something in his mind he can focus on,” Bradley said. “He’s had a very good stretch in preseason, he scores every day so not surprised to see him get a goal tonight.”

Perez scored LAFC’s second goal Saturday night in a preseason-opening 2-0 victory over Penarol at Banc of California Stadium.


When asked about Bradley’s Firmino reference by a reporter after the game, Perez smiled and said he’s heard it from his coach.


“It’s nice to be compared to one of the best strikers right now in the Premier League, probably the world,” Perez said.