Portuguese forward Paulinho, now excelling in Mexico, has voiced strong aspirations for a return to the national squad for the 2026 World Cup, expressing readiness to contribute.
The 33-year-old forward, currently playing for Toluca, declared Friday that he is available for the Portuguese national team for as long as he continues his playing career. He believes his current form in Mexico positions him to help.
“While I’m playing, I’ll be available for the national team. I think I’m ready for it with what I’m doing at Toluca, I’m ready to help,” Paulinho said.
His hopes for a national team recall were boosted this week when Portugal’s coach, Roberto Martínez, indicated Paulinho is among three forwards under evaluation for a spot. The other two players are André Silva of Elche and Fábio Silva of Borussia Dortmund.
Paulinho expressed a personal connection to the tournament’s location. “It would be incredible, being in Mexico, to play a World Cup for my country here,” he stated, adding that “the stars are aligning” for such an opportunity.
He transferred to Toluca from Sporting for the 2024/25 season and is currently competing in the final phase of the Liga MX Apertura tournament. He has been the Mexican League’s top scorer three times.
Paulinho has three senior caps for Portugal, all in 2020, during which he scored two goals.
Portugal has already secured its qualification for the 2026 World Cup finals. The tournament is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Paulinho acknowledged the high level of competition for places in the national squad. He noted Cristiano Ronaldo’s impact on Portuguese football and described the current generation of players as potentially the best in the nation’s history.
“It’s complicated, there are many good players, but I’m ready for the day they call me,” he concluded. Paulinho has also played for Portuguese clubs Sporting Braga and Gil Vicente.