Paulinho feels special playing alongside Messi

CAIRO - 20 September 2017: Barcelona’s new signing Jose Paulo, commonly known as Paulinho, is happy to share the field with Barcelona star Lionel Messi, Paulinho told press on Tuesday.

“It is special to play alongside the best footballer in the world,” Paulinho told press after Barcelona’s 6-1 victory over Eibar on Tuesday night at Camp Nou.

Paulinho explained why he adapted quickly with the club, saying “I am very grateful for how I have been welcomed at Barcelona, playing with great players makes me happy and they have been good in helping me adapt.”

Paulinho added, “I am happy with the affection everyone is showing me but the only way to respond to that is by playing well and helping my teammates in order to reach our objectives.”

Paulinho scored two goals in Barcelona’s last two games against Getafe and Eibar.

Barcelona fans criticized Paulinho’s transfer from the Chinese team Guangzhou Evergrande for €40 million ($47.9 million), but Paulinho has made a great start with the club and has begun winning over Barcelona fans.