‘Old Man’ De Paula says he’s still lethal in front of goal

PETALING JAYA: Local football fans remained sceptical over Guilherme De Paula’s (pic) inclusion in the World Cup 2022-Asia Cup 2023 qualifiers training camp in Johor Baru.

Many thought that the naturalised player was a pale shadow of his former self.

This season, the 34-year-old Brazilian’s form has been suspect as he failed to score in the first-four games for Perak.

He only came to life with a brace in the 2-2 draw against league champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in their last game before the international break.

Last season, he fared no better scoring just two goals in 10 matches for the Seladangs.

De Paula said people are entitled to their opinion but reminded them of his prowess in the Malaysian League over the years.

“For me, I have been a top striker in the past. When I played for Selangor, I won the Malaysia Cup. When I played for Police, I was their leading scorer. When I was with Kuala Lumpur, I became their highest-scoring foreign striker and second on the all-time list, ” he said.

“With Perak, it is not too bad despite the off-pitch issues. I’m aware of the criticism and I have no problems with it. I only take the good things to motivate myself to do better. I’m a professional.”

Despite his advanced age, De Paula feels he still has a few good years left in him.

“I’m not that old and as they say old is gold. In Europe, you can see players my age still giving their best day in, day out. I know what I’m capable of. Age is the least of my problem.”

De Paula said he was happy to be with the national team as the coaches, staff, and players have been welcoming.

“The vibe is good and I see myself donning the Malaysia jersey in future. As for competition for the striker’s role, I have played with Eky (Shahrel Fikri Md Fauzi) and against the other strikers and our goal is the same... to see this squad go far in world football. Whoever is picked, they will give their best.”

De Paula is also heartened to see young players in the camp.

“Luqman (Hakim Shamsuddin), Akhyar (Rashid) and Ramadhan (Saifullah), they are the future of Malaysian football.

“Luqman is a good player and plays in Europe. He has faced good sides which will make him better and that helps the national team.”