Brazilian striker and Al Arabi fan favourite Paulinho spoke with QSL Online and explained that the level of competition in the first 8 weeks this season has been very high.

“The competition is very tough, all the teams are much better this season especially with regards to the top four teams.”

He added, “The next game against El Jaish will be a tough task as they are second but we are confident in our abilities.”

The front man was hesitant to say who he thought would take the title, saying “The QSL Shield is still on the pitch as they say; only eight Rounds have been played. We still have 18 Rounds left. All the teams in this league still have a chance to compete despite Rayyan having a great start to the season. There are still many games and I am sure there will be some surprised or upsets.”

He continued by saying that this year’s winter transfer window will also be an intriguing time with many transfers still to come.

“The transfer window will lead to many changes for teams in the QSL. Teams will seek to reinforce themselves with good players for the second half of the season I am sure.”

Asked about the current break in the league due to international matches Paulinho said that it has been beneficial for his side.

“The break has been great for us, especially for Arabi, we played some friendly games which was good. The league break allowed our injured players time to recover and it also gave our technical staff the opportunity to enhance our fitness in order to continue with the campaign.”

Asked about football in Qatar and if he felt that the right conditions existed for good professionals to be developed Paulinho said, “Everything here in Qatar is conducive to help players to become better. All possible facilities and care are available in Qatar. From what I can see Qatar is a big player on the field of sport in general.”

Asked about the World Cup which is slated to take place in the State of Qatar in 2022, the Arabi star said, “The World Cup will be a wonderfully organised event. Qatar has all of the resources and skills necessary to pull of this event brilliantly.”

You can catch Paulinho with his team this weekend on El Jaish at the Al Arabi stadium at 4pm on Saturday.