Rogério Ceni confirms Bahia will not buy João Paulo, who may return to Santos | OneFootball

Bahia head coach Rogério Ceni has confirmed the club will not take up the option to sign goalkeeper João Paulo, who may now return to Santos.

With Ronaldo back fit, João Paulo was omitted from the squad for Saturday’s 2-1 win over Botafogo at Arena Fonte Nova in the 18th round of the Brasileirão. Ceni said Ronaldo had completed a lengthy individual programme then around six full sessions, had been in strong form before his injury and deserved to reclaim his place. He added that the board had decided against buying João Paulo, praised the keeper’s professionalism and noted the situation could weigh on him psychologically.

João Paulo joined Bahia on loan in August last year until mid this year with an obligation to buy, even bidding farewell to Santos and team-mates at CT Rei Pelé on social media. He did not convince at the club, who sought to extend the loan until the end of the year, but Santos rejected the request.

He also held talks with Botafogo and Corinthians. Santos do not intend to negotiate with Botafogo due to sums owed to the club, and João Paulo was not interested in the São Paulo rivals out of respect for his history at Santos.

At Bahia, he played six Baiano matches early in the year and made two Série A appearances. He did not feature for the nordestino club in 2025.

Source: Diario Do Peixe