Paulinho Nears Return as Palmeiras Prepares for Copa do Brasil Clash
Palmeiras is inching closer to welcoming back Paulinho for their upcoming Copa do Brasil match against Jacuipense on April 23. The attacking midfielder, who has been sidelined since a second surgery in July 2025, is now taking part in regular squad activities and ball drills—but the club remains cautious about rushing him into action.
A Careful Comeback Plan
Paulinho’s return isn’t just about fitness—it’s about sustainability. After two separate surgeries on his right tibia (first in 2024 while at Atlético-MG, then again last July with Palmeiras), the medical team is prioritizing long-term availability over short-term gains. He’s been traveling with the squad for away matches, including trips to Salvador and Colombia, but hasn’t made the matchday roster yet.
The club’s official stance? No fixed return date. Instead, they’re monitoring his daily response to training loads. That said, there’s real optimism he could be named to the bench for the Jacuipense game—even if he doesn’t start.
Why This Matters for Palmeiras
Paulinho isn’t just any squad player. Signed as Palmeiras’ second-most expensive acquisition, he’s expected to be a creative engine in big matches. So far, his impact has been limited: just 16 appearances (only one start), three goals, and two assists since debuting in April 2025.
His absence has been felt most in high-stakes games where midfield control and final-third creativity are crucial. With the Copa do Brasil offering a direct path to continental football, getting Paulinho even partially involved could shift momentum in tight knockout ties.
Timeline of Setbacks and Hope
- 2024: Underwent first tibia surgery while at Atlético-MG.
- April 2025: Made Palmeiras debut after missing Paulista, Brasileirão start, and Libertadores group stage.
- June–July 2025: Limited minutes at Club World Cup due to managed workload.
- Late July 2025: Required second surgery, sidelining him indefinitely.
- April 2026: Now training fully with squad, eyeing Copa do Brasil return.
What to Expect Against Jacuipense
Allianz Parque will host the fifth-round tie on April 23 at 7:30 p.m. local time. Jacuipense, a modest Bahian side, presents a manageable test—but also the perfect scenario for reintroducing a key player like Paulinho off the bench.
Manager Abel Ferreira may use this match to test combinations ahead of tougher fixtures. If Paulinho is included in the squad, even without starting, it signals the club’s confidence in his readiness for more demanding encounters later in the competition.
Key Takeaways
- Paulinho is actively training with the first team and participating in ball work.
- Palmeiras refuses to set a firm return date, opting for day-by-day evaluation.
- His potential inclusion against Jacuipense would mark his first squad call-up since July 2025.
- Full match fitness is unlikely—he’d likely be used as a substitute if selected.
- The Copa do Brasil offers a low-risk environment for his gradual reintegration.
While fans are eager to see Paulinho back in green, the club’s disciplined approach reflects lessons learned from repeated setbacks. Rushing him now could jeopardize his availability for the Brasileirão stretch or Libertadores knockouts—both higher priorities than a single Copa do Brasil round-of-16 qualifier.
Still, having him on the bench would be a psychological boost and a tactical option in case the game stalls. For a team built to compete on multiple fronts, depth—and timely returns—can make all the difference.
— Editorial Team
