Indy Eleven Signs Veteran Midfielder Paulo Junior

Indy Eleven announces the addition of attacking midfielder Paulo Junior with the Brazilian eligible to face North Carolina FC during the midweek clash on Wednesday, September 13 pending the arrival of his work visa. Per club policy, details of the contract will not be released.

A pacy midfielder with skillful dribbling ability, Paulo Jr. joins “Indiana’s Team” having last played for the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 2016 following a trade from Ottawa Fury FC. Spending the 2015 and 2016 seasons with Fury FC, the 28-year-old made 29 starts in 37 appearances and netted five times with five assists.

“His specialty is on the left or right wing and he’s very, very good in one-on-one situations and on breaking down defenses," Indy Eleven coach Tim Hankinson said. "That’s his style. Fortunately, many of our players have played with or against him, and I’ve coached against him and seen his qualities. We think he’ll be a valuable piece down the stretch.

“With ten games left, there isn’t a lot of time to influence the chemistry of the team. Every player has got to earn their stripes when they arrive and the respect of his teammates. That said, I think he’ll have an influence on the field right from the start. We’re hoping that he can create more goalscoring opportunities for us.”

The native of Teresina, Brazil, first made his way to the United States with the Strikers in 2009, where he stayed for three years, separated by loans to MLS side Real Salt Lake in 2010 and 2011. After transferring to RSL on a permanent deal in 2012, Paulo Jr. made his return to the Strikers in 2013, featuring 12 times.