Jamie Carragher has singled out Joao Palhinha as Tottenham Hotspur’s best signing under new manager Thomas Frank, claiming the midfielder has been even more influential than Mohammed Kudus in the early stages of the season.
Tottenham’s new era under Frank has started positively, with the club balancing structural change and steady results after a busy summer of transition.
The Danish coach has implemented a more compact, disciplined system, replacing Ange Postecoglou’s expansive approach — and according to Carragher, Palhinha has been central to that tactical shift.
Carragher Praises Palhinha’s Influence
Writing in The Telegraph, Carragher lauded the Portuguese midfielder’s contribution, describing him as a “highly effective ball-winner” and the perfect player for Tottenham’s new setup.
“In Xavi Simons, he has signed a gifted footballer who fits the Spurs tradition. He is the type of player the fans will want to see flourish. The best signing under Frank so far is Joao Palhinha, a highly effective ball-winner more so than a playmaker. In the early stages of his Spurs career, Palhinha is exactly what Frank and his new club need, and it could bring instant success.” — Jamie Carragher, via *The Telegraph*
Carragher compared the 29-year-old’s impact to that of Mohammed Kudus — who has also impressed since joining Spurs — but argued that Palhinha’s defensive discipline has made him the more “transformative” addition so far.
Frank’s Tactical Evolution
Thomas Frank’s arrival has changed Tottenham’s approach significantly. Under Postecoglou, Spurs were known for high-risk, attacking football; Frank has instead opted for a pragmatic and structured setup.
That shift has divided supporters, particularly given that the pairing of Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur in midfield has sometimes been labelled “too cautious” during home fixtures.
Still, Carragher believes the trade-off between style and stability is paying off. Spurs’ midfield now looks far more resilient, allowing flair players like Kudus and Xavi Simons to operate with greater freedom ahead of them.
Permanent Move Likely
Tottenham secured Palhinha on loan from Bayern Munich last summer, with an option to buy for £26 million at the end of the season. So far, all signs suggest that Spurs will trigger that clause.
Palhinha has already scored a handful of crucial goals and established himself as a leader on and off the pitch.
Frank has also been full of praise for his new midfielder, telling reporters:
“Very happy with Joao. He has done very well for us. Come in, helped the team, performing well, playing centre-back and still doing well. Really pleased with him.” — Thomas Frank
Our View: Palhinha Brings the Balance Spurs Needed
In our view, Joao Palhinha has been the missing piece in Tottenham’s midfield puzzle. His positional awareness, physical presence, and leadership have helped transform Spurs into one of the most balanced sides in the Premier League this season.
While Kudus adds flair, Palhinha adds foundation — and that balance could be what finally makes Spurs genuine top-four contenders again.
Key Insights
- Jamie Carragher says Joao Palhinha has been Tottenham’s best signing under Thomas Frank.
- The Bayern Munich loanee has impressed as a midfield anchor and occasional stand-in centre-back.
- Carragher believes Palhinha’s impact has been even greater than Mohammed Kudus.
- Spurs have an option to buy him permanently for £26 million next summer.
- Thomas Frank has praised the midfielder’s leadership and versatility.
What’s Next
Tottenham face Chelsea at home today (4 PM) as they look to extend their strong start to the Premier League campaign. Palhinha is expected to start once again in midfield, anchoring the side alongside Bentancur.
👉 Spurs fans — do you agree with Carragher that Palhinha has been an even better signing than Kudus?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 1 Nov 2025 14:35
Well we will see within a few minutes - im not a spurs fan and to be honest I've only watched them against City where in he was really good. it is a player or a profile that they've lacked last season
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