Paulinho was introduced at Inter on Monday afternoon, where he was presented with the number 27 jersey by executive Fabinho Soldado and confirmed as the club's first signing for 2026. The 29-year-old midfielder stated that he had received little playing time at Vasco in 2025 after recovering from anterior cruciate ligament surgery on his right knee, an injury he sustained in 2024. Paulinho revealed that the recovery from his first major injury was so difficult that he considered quitting football. He highlighted that Fabinho Soldado made an interesting proposal and project for him, encouraging him to join by saying he would find happiness at the club. Paulinho added that he wants to enjoy playing the game again and believes he made the right decision by moving to Inter.