Paulinho sends a strong message to the other clubs of Liga MX
Toluca's top scorer spoke about his future in Mexican soccer. In addition to praising Mexico, Paulinho reaffirmed his love for the club.
Los Diablos Tojos del Toluca have one of the most coveted forwards in all of Liga MX on their roster. Paulinho has proven his worth in Mexican soccer. The Portuguese striker made his point clear about his possible future in Mexico: he wants to stay in Toluca.
In July 2024, Paulinho arrived in Mexican football from Sporting CP. The veteran striker born in Barcelos had a great reputation behind him and over the months he has been able to demonstrate it with his performances.
Far from thinking about seeking new horizons, Paulinho acknowledged that his goal is to remain with the Red Devils of Toluca until he retires. At 32 years old, Paulinho still sees himself at Antonio “Turco” Mohamed’s club.
“I’m loyal to Toluca. My family and I are happy… It’s no longer a financial issue, it’s no longer an issue of whatever. Now I understand some things in life and I know that being happy is important, so, as soon as I’m happy here, it’s very difficult for me to leave,” said the Portuguese player in an interview with Futbol Total MX.
With Paulinho’s good performances, it’s not unreasonable to think that a club could be interested in his services. This could happen in Liga MX, Europe, or even Arab football tournaments. However, for Paulinho, his plan is to stay firmly with the Red Devils of Toluca until he decides to hang up his boots.
“Yes, I think for me in Mexico only Toluca, for sure. After that, there are many things that are difficult; family issues, the club not wanting you, whatever. But if things continue like this, Toluca until the end,” he added.
Mexico through different eyes
Paulinho acknowledged that he had some prejudices about Mexico, mainly due to the insecurity within the country. However, the former Sporting player believes that his perspective has changed since he arrived in Liga MX. The perception of Mexico has also changed for those around him.
“People in Portugal think that Mexico is not a safe country,the same thing I felt... And now that I've been here for over a year, I know that the country is much more than what is said, and when I have family or friends who come here, they fall in love with the country," he concluded.
Paulinho has had a very influential performance in Mexican soccer. The Portuguese attacker has played 57 games since arriving in Mexico. The 32-year-old forward has scored 41 goals and provided 9 assists for the Diablos Rojos del Toluca.