Paulinho - All Goals and Assists for Guangzhou Evergrande
Paulinho - All Goals and Assists for Guangzhou Evergrande
Paulinho's tenure at Guangzhou Evergrande marked a significant and highly successful chapter in his professional football career. He initially joined the Chinese Super League club in 2015, making a surprising move from Tottenham Hotspur. This transfer saw him reunite with manager Luiz Felipe Scolari, who had previously coached him with the Brazilian national team. This period was crucial for Paulinho, as it allowed him to rediscover his form and confidence after a challenging spell in the Premier League.
During his initial two-year stint with Guangzhou Evergrande from 2015 to 2017, Paulinho quickly became an integral part of the team. His dynamic midfield performances, characterized by powerful box-to-box runs, strong tackling, and a keen eye for goal, significantly contributed to the club's dominance in Chinese football and Asia. He notably played in 63 matches and scored 17 goals in this period, becoming a fan favorite.
His exceptional form at Guangzhou Evergrande did not go unnoticed, leading to a remarkable transfer to FC Barcelona in 2017. This move, for a reported €40 million, was seen by many as a testament to the rising quality of the Chinese Super League and Paulinho's resurgence. His time at Barcelona, though brief, was also successful, winning La Liga and the Copa del Rey, further cementing his reputation on the global stage.
However, Paulinho's connection with Guangzhou Evergrande was strong, and he made a return to the club in 2018, initially on loan, before completing a permanent transfer in 2019. This second spell was arguably even more prolific. From 2018 to 2021, he continued his impressive scoring record, bagging 13 goals in 19 appearances during his loan spell in 2018 and an additional 31 goals in 49 appearances from 2019 to 2021.
Throughout his combined five-year spell at Guangzhou Evergrande across two stints, Paulinho amassed an impressive trophy cabinet. He played a crucial role in securing the AFC Champions League title in 2015, a landmark achievement for the club. Domestically, his contributions helped Guangzhou Evergrande to four Chinese Super League titles (2015, 2016, 2017, 2019), demonstrating the club's consistent success during his presence.
Beyond the major titles, Paulinho also contributed to Guangzhou Evergrande's success in domestic cup competitions. He lifted the Chinese FA Cup in 2016 and secured two Chinese Football Association Super Cups (2016, 2017). His individual performances were also recognized, as he was named the Chinese Super League Player of the Year in 2018/19, scoring 19 goals in that season.
In total, Paulinho made 176 appearances for Guangzhou Evergrande, scoring 75 goals and providing 29 assists. His time in China was transformative, not only for his own career, as he regained his place in the Brazilian national team, but also for the Chinese Super League, as his success demonstrated that top-tier talent could thrive and rediscover their best form within the league, attracting further high-profile players.