Joelinton extends contract until 2022

"Joe has developed into an important part of our team within a short space of time. Thanks to his enormous physical presence, his pace, his power, his threat in front of goal and his eye for a team-mate, he has become one of the rising stars of the league. I see the sky as the limit for this player, as he possesses an unbreakable will and wants to keep learning every single day," said Alexander Rosen. For the sporting director, the contract extension is "further proof of how we can offer young, ambitious players exciting challenges, international prospects and an outstanding, innovative infrastructure. It's this whole package that makes us attractive."

Joelinton Cassio Apolinário de Lira joined Hoffenheim from Sport Club do Recife in Brazil at the age of 18 in summer 2015. He made his Bundesliga debut for the Sinsheim club, before joining Austrian top-flight outfit Rapid Vienna for two seasons, scoring 21 goals and setting up a further nine in 79 competitive matches. Having matured enormously in both footballing and physical terms, he returned to Germany this summer and has already featured in 17 competitive matches for Hoffenheim. In that time, he has claimed a remarkable eight goals and seven assists.

"I'm very thankful to Hoffenheim"

"I'm living my dream," said the Brazilian. "I'm very thankful to Hoffenheim for the trust they've placed in me and the work that they've invested in me over recent years."

As such, Joelinton sees the contract extension "not only as a recognition, but as an incentive to continue my improvement". He is hoping that Hoffenheim will serve as a platform to earn him a call-up for Brazil. "I'm playing for the perfect club for my development, in one of the best leagues in Europe. My next major objective is to represent my country. I'll continue to work hard to get there."