Paulinho could return after more than 300 days as Palmeiras map careful plan | OneFootball

Paulinho could make his first appearance in 302 days on Saturday when Palmeiras host Santos at 18:30 Brasília time in the 14th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro.

According to Globo.com, the forward has been named in the squad after a second operation on his right leg and nearly two months of on-pitch reconditioning.

Sidelined since 4 July 2025, when he played through pain at the Club World Cup, the number 10 returns under a cautious plan, with his workload managed even if he features.

The health and performance team will not guarantee his selection for every game, and the club plan to use May and the World Cup break to push him towards 100%.

The problem began with a stress fracture of the tibia diagnosed at Atlético-MG in 2024. He played six months before surgery, moved to Palmeiras two weeks later, then needed a second procedure with a stronger implant.

Progress has been encouraging, but the timetable was slowed. A possible April return, including the tie against Jacuipense on 23 April, was shelved as training loads were intensified.

Last year he started only once, in May, then came off the bench under a 30-minute cap, scoring three and assisting two. He hit the winner against Botafogo in the Club World Cup last 16, then featured against Chelsea before undergoing surgery.

Palmeiras are also without number 9 Vitor Roque until after the World Cup.

Source: Globo.com