Paulo Henrique Receives Boost from Jorginho Before Brazil Call-Up

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) — In a last-minute update to the Brazilian national team roster for upcoming friendlies against South Korea and Japan, right-back Paulo Henrique received encouragement from 1994 World Cup champion Jorginho.

The meeting took place after a church service, where Jorginho shared his support. ‘I saw him and gave him a hug. I told him, ‘Keep believing. You’re doing great,’’ Jorginho recounted. At that time, Paulo Henrique had not yet been called up to the team.

Shortly after their encounter, Paulo Henrique was selected to replace injured Wesley from AS Roma. Just as he was heading to Santa Catarina for family time, the call from head coach Carlo Ancelotti came.

Jorginho believes that Paulo Henrique possesses the skills needed to help the national team’s tactical setup. “He is very strong in defense, which is essential for any fullback. While it’s important to focus on offense and high pressing, a defender’s primary role is to defend. He excels in one-on-one situations and makes good cover plays. He communicates well on the field, and his offensive game keeps improving,” Jorginho said.

According to Jorginho, the competition for the right-back position is wide open. Both Paulo Henrique and Vitinho from Botafogo are candidates for the final roster ahead of the 2026 World Cup. “I believe it is completely open. Both Paulo Henrique and Vitinho hold a special place for me. Paulo, in particular, is playing for Vasco, a club I have a strong connection with. There isn’t currently a definitive starter in that position,” Jorginho noted.

Jorginho participated in the ‘Partida do Coração,’ a charity event held at Maracanã Stadium last Friday, celebrating the friendship between Brazil and Italy with legends from both nations.