The Brazilian winger, 26, joined Marseille from Feyenoord in 2025 and attracted interest from several European clubs after impressing in France. Napoli, Milan, Liverpool and Arsenal were among those linked with him before Sunderland emerged as a serious late contender.
Paixão ultimately stayed at Marseille, despite the possibility of a move being discussed. He said the decision was his own and that he did not want to leave a squad that could not easily replace him.
"I didn't want to leave. I still don't want to leave," Paixão told Brazilian outlet Band. "It was a bit intense when the club put all the players on the transfer list. I chose to stay to help my team. We can't recruit new players; there wouldn't have been replacements."
Marseille's owners were reportedly open to selling the winger as the club looked to raise funds, while manager Bruno Genesio wanted to keep him. Sunderland's interest intensified towards the end of the window, but no agreement was reached.
Paixão now intends to use the season to strengthen his position and believes a future move could still benefit both himself and Marseille.
"We will have a good season so that next year other clubs can come and challenge us and we can take the next step," he said. "Of course, a move would be beneficial for the club and for me."
The comments suggest Paixão has not closed the door on leaving Marseille, even though he was determined to remain this summer. His contract runs until 2030, giving the French club a strong position if interest returns.
For now, the winger's focus is on performing for Marseille after choosing to stay when a move to the Premier League appeared possible. Sunderland's pursuit may have ended without a transfer, but Paixão's ambition to eventually play in England remains clear.