João Palhinha has spoken of his delight at joining Tottenham Hotspur, insisting he is enjoying a fresh chapter in his career and feels trusted in a way that he did not experience in Germany. The 30-year-old midfielder joined Spurs on loan from Bayern Munich this summer with a €30m (£25.5m) option to buy, and his early performances suggest the club may be tempted to make the deal permanent.
Speaking at a press conference Abola with the Portugal national team, Palhinha admitted that his final months in Munich had been challenging. A lengthy injury absence disrupted his momentum, and when he returned, opportunities were scarce. He revealed that the lack of game time in Germany even affected his rhythm with Portugal, leaving him frustrated at missing key chances to contribute.
Now, though, the former Fulham star feels rejuvenated. “I’m going through a happy moment in my life. A new club, a new project. A league that isn’t new to me and that I’m enjoying again,” Palhinha explained. “Football and life are very momentary. I just have to enjoy these moments.”
Palhinha: “I feel wanted at Tottenham”
Palhinha credits the trust of manager Thomas Frank as a key reason for his decision to return to England.
“I’ve simply been having the opportunities I didn’t have in the past. I feel total confidence from the people who wanted to bring me to Tottenham. In this case, the coach Thomas Frank, who was the main person responsible for my return to England. When we feel wanted somewhere, I think that’s where we should be. So I made this decision very easily.” — João Palhinha, *MaisFutebol*
Palhinha stressed that Tottenham’s faith has enabled him to rediscover his best form, adding: “It’s not only because it’s the Premier League, but because I felt the desire from the other side to work with me. And that’s what’s helping me show again what I’m capable of.”
Spurs impact and statistics
Since arriving in North London, Palhinha has become an immediate fixture in Frank’s midfield plans. He has featured in 11 games across all competitions this season, totalling 718 minutes, scoring three goals. His blend of aggression, positioning and forward drive has added balance to a Spurs midfield that lacked experience last season.
Stats snapshot – João Palhinha 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Palhinha |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 11 |
| Minutes Played | 718 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 0 |
source: sofascore match data – 6 October 2025
The figures reflect a player who has quickly settled back into Premier League rhythm, offering both defensive stability and attacking contributions.
Analyst verdict: Spurs may already have their answer
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Tottenham will find it difficult not to trigger the purchase option.
“Palhinha has brought leadership and consistency into Spurs’ midfield. His words about feeling valued underline the importance of player-club chemistry. With two goals already and his minutes steadily climbing, Spurs will see €30m as a sound investment in a player who knows the league and improves the squad immediately.”
Key insights
- João Palhinha joined Tottenham from Bayern Munich on a loan with a €30m option to buy.
- He has played 11 matches so far, with 3 goals and 0 assist.
- Palhinha says he feels “wanted” under manager Thomas Frank.
- The midfielder admits Bayern frustrations but insists he is now happy and confident.
- Signs point towards Tottenham making his move permanent if form continues.
What’s next for Palhinha and Spurs?
Palhinha’s focus now shifts to international duty with Portugal, where he remains eager to compete for a starting place. His improved club form strengthens his case as he looks to play a bigger role in the national team setup.
For Tottenham, the question is not if, but when they commit to keeping him long-term. If Palhinha continues to thrive, the £25.5m option to buy could become one of the most straightforward transfer decisions Spurs have made in recent years.
👉 Should Tottenham trigger Palhinha’s €30m option and make his stay permanent?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *