Paulinho: I will prove the doubters wrong

New Barcelona signing Paulinho insists he will change the opinion of critics as the midfielder seeks to help restore Lionel Messi’s reputation as the world’s best player. 

The Brazilian recently completed a €40million move to Camp Nou following a two-year stint at Chinese Super League side Guangzhou Evergrande Taobao.

The acquisition has been met with surprise as fans question the former Tottenham player’s credentials, having spent some of his prime years away from the limelight.

But the 29-year-old is adamant his performances on the pitch will silence the doubters.

“Everything I can do I can do it by playing, so I will change the opinion of the people,” Paulinho told Sport.

“The best way to respond is on the field, helping my team-mates, striving for victories.

“I am very mature and I do not think about [criticism], only about helping Barcelona win titles.”

 Training session with all the available squad members at the Ciutat Esportiva #FCBlive pic.twitter.com/Xk2m0bgPjQ

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 24, 2017

While he won’t be lining up alongside international teammate Neymar, Paulinho is eager to develop an understanding with the jewel in Barca’s attacking crown – Lionel Messi.

“I am looking at the way he has to play, how I should play in order to adapt to him,” he said.

“Because the goal is to do everything possible so that he becomes the best in the world again and that he helps us to win titles.”