The former player and now football executive Paulinho put an end to speculation about his future. In a press conference this Monday, the director confirmed that he will continue in Mirassol for the season 2026frustrating the plans of the Corinthianswho considered the idol’s name for the position of football manager. And also from other clubs that tried to sign him. Paulinho’s philosophy is to build competitive teams with involved and cheap players.
Even without a formal contract signed, Paulinho highlighted that the agreement with the board of the club from the interior of São Paulo is solid. “I’m a Mirassol employee. Whether it’s on paper or a napkin, we renew. It’s the word that counts”, said the executive, whose work helped keep the club in Series A and took the team to the Libertadores.
Paulinho arrived at Mirassol at the end of 2024. Under his management, the club achieved a historic feat: qualifying for the Copa Libertadores directly in the group stage. According to him, gratitude for the opportunity and the desire to consolidate the project outweighed the invitations from large institutions in Brazil and abroad.
Keeping an eye on the Mirassol base
For 2026, the challenge for the young leader will be even greater. In addition to the main cast, Paulinho is also directly responsible for the base categories from Mirassol. “The board asked me to also take care of the base. Mirassol has to be a grassroots club, with a philosophy where the boy already sees the professional. I’m here at CT all day, paying attention to the boys, because they have a unique opportunity”, explained the manager.
Scenario at Corinthians
Corinthians, who recently hired Marcelo Paz (ex-Fortaleza) as an executive, is still looking for a name for football management to work together with the new board. Paulinho was the favorite part of the black and white leadership due to their identification with Fiel, but the decision to pursue an executive career in the interior prevailed. He would only leave the club if he was allowed to do so. This Monday, he said he will stay in Mirassol.
AI with information and editing from The Football
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