Paulo Henrique eyed by clubs at home and abroad, Vasco decide | OneFootball

The absence of Paulo Henrique in the 1-1 draw against Chapecoense last Thursday (5th) marked the fourth consecutive match in which the right-back was unavailable for Vasco da Gama. While the player remains under the care of the Medical Department to treat a chronic foot problem, his name is stirring up the backstage of the transfer market. The athlete’s staff confirmed that they have received inquiries from clubs in Brazil and abroad in recent weeks, interested in signing the defender who made it to the Brazilian National Team last season.

Despite the interest, Vasco’s stance is firm. The club’s management was not swayed by the amounts offered in the initial approaches, which were considered below the player’s technical level. The club believes Paulo Henrique is a valuable asset and has no intention of negotiating him, shielding the athlete so he can focus exclusively on his physical recovery and return to the pitch.

+ Puma Rodríguez laments Vasco’s draw and disputes the foul in Chapecoense’s goal

Conservative treatment to avoid surgery

The reason for the prolonged absence is clinical. Paulo Henrique had been playing “through the pain” at the start of 2026, relying on injections and medication to endure recurring foot pain. The joint decision between the coaching staff and the Health and Performance Department (DESP) was to interrupt his run of games for a definitive conservative treatment.

The goal is to prevent the condition from worsening and requiring surgical intervention in the future. The break aims to eliminate the pain so that the right-back can regain the full range of his movements and the physical explosiveness that is his trademark. There is no set date for his return, but caution is the watchword at São Januário.

Paulo Henrique recovering from injury – Photo: Thiago Ribeiro/AGIF

The rise of Puma Rodríguez

While the starter is recovering from injury and the market speculates, Puma Rodríguez is taking advantage of the opportunity. The Uruguayan, who has experienced ups and downs wearing Vasco’s shirt, has been dominating the position in Paulo Henrique’s absence. Against Chapecoense, Puma was not only solid defensively but also got forward to score the team’s only goal, showing opportunism and good game awareness.

The good form of the immediate backup brings a “good problem” for Fernando Diniz. Whereas Paulo Henrique’s starting spot was previously unquestioned, Puma Rodríguez’s improved performances — combined with the physical uncertainty surrounding the number 2 — have intensified the competition for the right-back position. The Uruguayan is showing he’s ready to step up in a packed season, easing the pressure on PH’s recovery.

Pumita is in great form at the Gigante da Colina – Photo: Matheus Lima / Vasco

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