Brazilian playmaker Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Júnior, fondly known as Oscar, has returned to his boyhood club São Paulo, signing a contract that will keep him at the Brazilian Serie A side until December 31, 2027.
The 33-year-old midfielder, who honed his craft in São Paulo’s youth academy in Cotia, rejoins the Tricolor after a 14-year journey that saw him shine on domestic and international stages.
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A Long-Awaited Comeback
Oscar arrives back in Brazil after a stellar spell with Shanghai Port in China, where he consistently demonstrated his brilliance. His final season with the Chinese outfit was his most prolific.
The playmaker scored 16 goals and providing 29 assists in just 39 games during the 2024 campaign. Over the last four years, he led the Chinese Super League in assists, delivering 22 decisive passes in 2024 alone.
A Warm Welcome from São Paulo Leadership
São Paulo’s leadership expressed their excitement about Oscar’s return. Club president Julio Casares shared his commitment to securing the player’s signature, stating, “Oscar is a player who needs no introduction. He has a technical quality that is hard to find on the market. I personally committed to this negotiation, as I had been talking to him about this possibility for over six months. We will work to have a 2025 with great results.”
Football director Carlos Belmonte echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Oscar’s potential to elevate the squad. “Having a great player with Oscar’s experience and talent in our squad will make São Paulo even stronger to face the challenges of the 2025 season,” Belmonte remarked.
Oscar’s Gratitude and Ambitions
The midfielder himself expressed joy and gratitude upon his return. “I’m happy to be back in Brazil and to be able to play for São Paulo, which is the club where I started, where I grew up and where I discovered myself,” Oscar shared. “I’m grateful for the affection I’ve received on social media in the last few days, and I’ll do my best to achieve great things together.”
A Glittering Career Path
Oscar’s footballing journey began in Americana, São Paulo, where he rose through the ranks of the Tricolor youth academy. He made 14 appearances for São Paulo’s senior team and contributed to their 2008 Brazilian Championship triumph before moving to Internacional. At Internacional, he further cemented his reputation, winning the Recopa Sul-Americana and Campeonato Gaúcho titles.
In 2012, Oscar made the leap to Europe, joining Chelsea in the English Premier League. He became an integral part of a highly successful era for the club, lifting the UEFA Europa League, Premier League, and English League Cup trophies. Oscar’s creativity and vision also earned him a spot on Brazil’s national team, with which he clinched the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013.
After nearly five years with Chelsea, Oscar transferred to Shanghai Port in 2017. His time in China was nothing short of extraordinary, as he tallied 76 goals and 110 assists in total, along with leading his team to three Chinese Super League titles and a Chinese Super Cup victory.
A New Chapter in Familiar Surroundings
Oscar’s return to São Paulo signifies a full-circle moment in his illustrious career. With his wealth of experience, technical prowess, and an enduring connection to the club, the midfielder is poised to inspire his teammates and fans alike.
As São Paulo prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season, Oscar’s presence is expected to reinvigorate the team’s aspirations for success. His story is not just about returning home but about rekindling a partnership with a club that shaped his beginnings in football.
The next chapter promises to be an exciting one for both Oscar and São Paulo, as the midfielder looks to add new achievements to an already decorated career.
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FAQs
What is the duration of Oscar’s contract with São Paulo?
Oscar has signed a contract with São Paulo until December 31, 2027.
How did Oscar perform in his final season with Shanghai Port?
In 2024, Oscar scored 16 goals and provided 29 assists in 39 games, leading the Chinese Super League in assists for the fourth consecutive year.
What are Oscar’s major career achievements?
Oscar has won the UEFA Europa League, two Premier League titles, the FIFA Confederations Cup, three Chinese Super League titles, and several domestic trophies in Brazil and China.
What was the club’s response to Oscar’s return?
São Paulo’s president, Julio Casares, praised Oscar’s exceptional quality and emphasized the club’s commitment to achieving success in 2025 with his help.
Why is Oscar’s return to São Paulo significant?
Oscar returns to his boyhood club after 14 years, bringing extensive international experience and a deep connection to São Paulo, where his professional journey began.
