Paulinho, Former Guangzhou Evergrande Star, Announces Retirement

Paulinho, the former Barcelona and Guangzhou Evergrande midfielder, has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing an end to an illustrious 18-year career. The Brazilian player, known for his powerful presence in midfield, shared the news with fans on Sunday, September 8, through an emotional message on social media.

The 36-year-old reflected on his journey, stating, “I was privileged to have been a multi-champion and to have won important things, as well as playing in two World Cups and for Barcelona. I left a great legacy. In my last game with Corinthians, with 45,000 Corinthians fans, I felt it would be my last game; there would be no better way to say goodbye.”

Paulinho’s final appearance on the pitch took place on May 29, 2024, when he came on as a substitute during a Sudamericana group stage match between Corinthians and Racing Montevideo. That match marked the conclusion of a career that spanned over a decade and saw him play for some of the biggest clubs around the world.

Starting his professional career with Vilnius in 2006, Paulinho went on to play for clubs such as LKS Lodz in Poland, Atletico Bragantino in Brazil, and later Corinthians, where he made a name for himself. In 2013, he made the jump to Europe, joining Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League before making a significant move to Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande (now Guangzhou FC) in 2015. Paulinho’s stint in China was hugely successful, where he won three Chinese Super League titles, two Chinese Super Cups, and the AFC Champions League, among other accolades.

In 2017, Paulinho joined Barcelona, where he won La Liga and the Copa del Rey during his one season at the club. After returning to Guangzhou Evergrande for another two-year spell, he solidified his status as one of the most successful foreign players in Chinese football history.

In total, Paulinho played for eight clubs, including Vilnius, LKS Lodz, Corinthians, Tottenham, Guangzhou Evergrande, Barcelona, and Al Ahli. Across his career, he made 611 appearances, scored 155 goals, and provided 42 assists. He also represented Brazil 26 times, scoring nine goals, and featured in two World Cup tournaments.

As Paulinho bids farewell to the sport, he leaves behind a legacy of success and determination, remembered as a key player for both club and country. His contributions, particularly in China and Spain, will be long remembered by fans across the world.