Paulinho’s Barcelona Adventure: A Brief Yet Stellar Chapter

The narrative surrounding the Chinese Super League often paints it as a retirement haven for seasoned players looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace while earning decent financial rewards. Transfers from China to major European leagues are considered rare, let alone successful ones. However, in the midst of this perception, Paulinho’s one-season stint at Barcelona emerged as a standout and compelling tale.

In August 2017, Barcelona made an eyebrow-raising move by signing the then-29-year-old Brazilian midfielder from Guangzhou Evergrande. Despite initial skepticism, Lionel Messi’s endorsement played a role in bringing Paulinho to Camp Nou.

Paulinho’s journey to Barcelona took an interesting turn. Following a stint at Tottenham, where he struggled to secure regular playing time under Mauricio Pochettino, Paulinho joined Guangzhou Evergrande in 2015 for €14m. Speaking about his time at Spurs, Paulinho shared, “Pochettino had his options, and at that time he thought I was not the best option for him. But I do think that if he gave me the opportunity in my role, then I would have convinced him.”

Barcelona, impressed by Paulinho’s performances, persisted in their pursuit, eventually triggering his €40m release clause. The Brazilian made his debut for Barca in August 2017 and swiftly became a consistent starter, showcasing his prowess in central midfield.

During the 2017/18 season, Paulinho scored nine La Liga goals, ranking third behind only Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Barcelona clinched the La Liga title with just one defeat and secured the Copa del Rey, although they stumbled in the Champions League quarter-finals against Roma, a match where Paulinho was notably absent.

Paulinho’s on-field chemistry with Messi and Iniesta drew praise from pundits, fostering the belief that his stay at Camp Nou would be extended. However, in a surprising turn of events, Guangzhou Evergrande re-signed Paulinho on a one-year loan deal in July 2018, with an option to buy. The Chinese club exercised the purchase option in January 2019, sealing the deal for €42m.

Paulinho’s journey with Barcelona was brief but impactful. He arrived, contributed to victories, and then departed, leaving behind a memorable chapter in his footballing career.