Paulo Robspierry Carreiro (born 16 January 1983), commonly known as Paulinho or Paulinho Piracicaba, is a former Brazilian-born Hong Kong professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder or a striker. He is currently the assistant coach of Hong Kong Premier League club HKFC.

Club career

Shenzhen

On 31 December 2015, Paulinho transferred to China League One side Shenzhen for a 7 unit fee and commanded a 2 year deal. However due to his recurring injury issues at the club, Paulinho would sit out for most of the season and would make his debut in the league against Qingdao Jonoon until he was subbed off in the 74th minute. Due to his injuries issues again, he would be sent to the Netherlands for surgery twice and making 4 appearances for Shenzhen as a total.

Kitchee

On 12 July 2017, Kitchee announced that Paulinho would return to the club. Paulinho would make his 2nd debut for the club against Yuen Long as a substitute coming in to replace Lam Zhi Gin in the 63rd minute and helping Kitchee gain a 3-0 victory. He would score his first goal in his return against Rangers, scoring a header 91 minutes in to assist Kitchee in 1 7-0 victory.

R&F

On 7 August 2018, Paulinho left Kitchee after one season to sign with R&F. He was released at the end of his contract on 19 June 2019.

HKFC

In October 2022, Paulinho returned to the top flight and joined HKFC. On 6 November 2022, Paulinho made his debut for HKFC in the Hong Kong Sapling Cup and scored twice to finish off his debut against Tai Po. Paulinho retired from professional football at the end of the 2023–24 season. He became the assistant coach and the U-18 manager of the club for the Hong Kong Youth Premier League squad.

International career

Paulinho was born and raised in Brazil, but became a naturalized Hong Kong citizen. Paulinho acquired his HKSAR passport on 31 October 2015, making him eligible to represent Hong Kong on the international level. Paulinho made his international debut for Hong Kong in a friendly against Myanmar on 7 November 2015 and scored his first goal against Maldives in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification – AFC second round on 12 November 2015.

Career statistics

International

International goals

Honours

Club

Individual