Paulinho could return for Palmeiras against Jacuipense in Copa do Brasil | OneFootball

Paulinho sat out Palmeiras' main session on Tuesday as preparations continued for Jacuipense on Thursday at 19:30 in São Paulo, but a comeback is close.

According to Globo.com, the forward worked to an individual plan inside the club's training centre, and there is a good chance the number 10 will be included for Palmeiras' Copa do Brasil opener.

He has been sidelined since July last year. His most recent appearance for Palmeiras was in the Club World Cup against Chelsea, which ended in a quarter-final defeat and exit.

After the tournament in the United States, he had surgery on his right leg. The nine-month recovery has been managed with caution, particularly late on after pain returned last year.

Signed for about R$ 120 million in early 2025, Paulinho has featured in only 16 games, scoring three goals with two assists.

Palmeiras also expect to have Jefté available by the end of the month. The left-back, in physical transition after a right thigh muscle injury, took part in a portion of the group work.

The latest session included early tactical drills followed by attack-versus-defence work on a reduced pitch. The squad have two more sessions before facing Jacuipense, and will start their Copa do Brasil campaign at home.

Source: Globo.com