The surprise return that Valencia is planning

The Brazilian defender is not in the plans of the Ottoman team, and everything points to his departure in January

Héctor Andreu | 16 Oct 2025 | 15.32
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Valencia is considering the return of Gabriel Paulista / Levante-EMV
Valencia is considering the return of Gabriel Paulista / Levante-EMV

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07/11/25 21:00:00
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Brazilian Gabriel Paulista, 34 years old and under contract with Besiktas until 2027, could put an end to his time in Istanbul earlier than expected. According to Turkish media reports, the experienced defender is not in the plans of coach Sergen Yalçin, opening the door for a potential exit in the upcoming winter transfer window.

Gabriel Paulista, sidelined in Besiktas' defense

When he arrived at Besiktas last summer, Gabriel Paulista was expected to bring leadership and experience to the defense. However, as reported by Milliyet, his time in the Turkish League has been more challenging than anticipated. Injuries, lack of consistency, and tactical changes have pushed the Brazilian into a secondary role within the team.

His performance has not met expectations, and the coach has opted for younger alternatives. In a club with high demands where results are key, Paulista has gradually lost ground. The sports management, aware of his high salary and the difficulty of him returning to his best form, would be willing to facilitate his departure.

Despite being under contract until 2027, the player could terminate or seek a transfer if a convincing offer arises. The club needs to reduce the wage bill and rejuvenate its squad, while the player aims to reclaim the prominence he had in previous years.

Return to Spain: Valencia on the horizon

Among the potential future options, a return to Valencia is strongly rumored. The Brazilian center-back was a cornerstone of the Che team for almost seven seasons, playing over 180 matches and winning the Copa del Rey in 2019. His comeback to Mestalla would be both a sentimental and sporting move due to the affection the fans still hold for him.

However, Valencia is facing economic difficulties, and their transfer policy focuses on young and low-cost players. Nevertheless, if Paulista can part ways with Besiktas without a transfer fee, a second spell in the Turia capital is not out of the question.

In addition to Valencia, interest has been mentioned from other clubs in the Turkish League such as Fenerbahçe, and even some Brazilian teams like Corinthians and Atletico Mineiro who would welcome a player with European experience back to Brazil.

Besiktas eager to part ways with Gabriel Paulista

Turkish League, a demanding challenge for veterans

The Turkish League is known for its competitive level and the constant pressure that foreign players experience. There is no room for prolonged adaptation, and clubs' patience tends to be short when results falter. In this context, veteran players like Gabriel Paulista find it harder to maintain consistency, especially as physical demands increase.

Besiktas has also opted to revamp its squad with emerging talent, and the presence of the Brazilian no longer seems to fit the club's new direction. All signs point to his departure being finalized in January, coinciding with the winter transfer market opening.

Gabriel Paulista's Immediate Future

In the coming weeks, the fate of a player who still has a lot to offer at the highest level will be determined, but who needs an environment where he feels valued. His desire is to enjoy football again and leave behind an inconsistent period in Istanbul.

If he manages to part ways with Besiktas, a return to Spain or Brazil could be his most probable paths. Whatever his next destination, the name of Gabriel Paulista will once again be back in the spotlight in the winter transfer market, seeking a fresh start after a modest spell in the Turkish league.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, La vuelta sorpresa que está planeando el Valencia