Gabriel Paulista

Lore & Background

Gabriel Paulista began his senior career with Vitória in 2010, winning two Campeonato Baiano titles and finishing as runner-up in the 2010 Copa do Brasil. He spent a season-and-a-half in Spain's top flight with Villarreal before joining Arsenal in January 2015. Having won two FA Cups, he moved to Valencia in August 2017. He made over 200 appearances for Valencia, winning the Copa del Rey in 2019. He later played for Atlético Madrid and Beşiktaş before joining Corinthians.

In Their Own Story

The stadium roared as the opposition striker made a run toward the box. Gabriel Paulista didn't flinch; he stood like a mountain in the center of the penalty area, eyes locked on the ball. With a perfectly timed jump, he met the cross high above his head, clearing it into the stands with a thunderous thud that silenced the attacking crowd.

Reader's Guide

Gabriel Paulista is a centre-back known for his defensive strength and occasional goal-scoring. He has played for clubs in Brazil, Spain, England, Turkey, and again in Brazil. His career includes titles with Vitória, Arsenal, Valencia, Beşiktaş, and Corinthians.

Did You Know?

• He was elected the best central defender of the 2013 Campeonato Baiano.
• He scored his only goal in the Brazilian national league on 25 May 2013 for Vitória against Internacional.
• He was sent off in the 2019 Champions League group stage for headbutting Dušan Tadić.
• He obtained Spanish nationality in December 2020, making himself available for the Spain national team.