New signing outshines rivals and earns respect at Corinthians | OneFootball

The defender Gabriel Paulista recently arrived at Corinthians, but it already feels like he’s been at the club for years. A self-declared Corinthians fan, the defender has earned the respect of Dorival Júnior’s coaching staff and overcame tough competition in the position to secure a starting spot in Timão’s defense.

Gabriel Paulista was signed by the São Paulo club on a free transfer, as he terminated his contract with Besiktas, from Turkey. The defender made his debut in a 3-0 away defeat to Red Bull Bragantino in the Campeonato Paulista, which was Corinthians’ second match of the year.

In the derby against São Paulo, the coaching staff hinted that, despite the experienced new signing, the defensive duo that finished last season at a high level would be maintained: Gustavo Henrique and André Ramalho. The two formed the back line in the 1-1 draw with their rivals at Neo Química Arena.

The scenario, however, changed quickly. Gabriel Paulista made a good impression in the opportunities he was given and became Gustavo Henrique’s main partner. He started in the opening match of the Campeonato Brasileiro, against Bahia. Afterwards, he was Dorival’s choice for the Supercopa do Brasil final against Flamengo, and scored the opening goal in the Alvinegro’s victory.

Then, on Sunday, the new signing was chosen once again to start alongside Gustavo Henrique in the derby against Palmeiras. Despite Corinthians’ defeat, the defender posted positive numbers. According to Sofascore data, he recorded three interceptions, four clearances, and seven ball recoveries. He was also not dribbled past even once.

Defender praised by Dorival

It’s no surprise that after the derby against Palmeiras, Gabriel Paulista was once again praised by Dorival Júnior. The coach, who had already lauded the player after the Supercopa do Brasil win, highlighted the increased competition in the position with the arrival of the new signing.

“A player of very good quality, he’s raising the level of competition within our team. We count on everyone here, especially Ramalho, who had been a starter. May they all keep working and striving. We want this healthy competition among all players. When you raise the level, the competition increases and the team gains in quality. That’s what we all want. With the arrival of some players who are just starting to work with us and others who are still to come, we’ll have an even stronger team,” commented Dorival.

In addition to André Ramalho, Gabriel Paulista also faces competition from João Pedro Tchoca. The youngster, who was initially set to be loaned to Torino, remained with the Alvinegro club after the failed negotiations with the Italian side and took over the number 4 shirt.

Other options for the position include Cacá, who may soon leave Corinthians. Recently, the player was in talks with Athletico-PR. The Furacão came close to reaching an agreement with Timão, but eventually pulled back. The Alvinegro board is prioritizing a permanent transfer for the player.

With Gabriel Paulista available, Corinthians turn their attention after the Derby back to the Campeonato Brasileiro, where they will face Red Bull Bragantino at home this Thursday.

Situation in the Paulista

With the negative result in the Derby, Corinthians remained in fifth place in the Paulistão, with 11 points. Timão has three wins, two draws, and two losses in the state championship.

Upcoming Corinthians matches

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.