João Palhinha’s resurgence at Tottenham Hotspur has become one of the standout stories of the Premier League season, and it appears to be heading toward a permanent conclusion.
Portuguese journalist Pedro Casteleiro has written a glowing column in A Bola, hailing Palhinha as the embodiment of English football’s intensity and revealing that Spurs’ hierarchy are now leaning toward activating their option to buy.
“Nobody tackles like him” – Palhinha praised by Portuguese media
Casteleiro’s piece outlines how Palhinha has rediscovered his best form since returning to England, where his physical style and aggression perfectly suit the demands of Premier League football.
“Nobody tackles like him. João Palhinha was made for the Premier League,” wrote Casteleiro. “After a forgettable spell in Munich, the former Sporting player is once again performing at the highest level in this return to the Premier League.” — Pedro Casteleiro, via A Bola
The article notes that the midfielder struggled during his stint at Bayern Munich, where the tactical and cultural environment didn’t align with his natural attributes. Since arriving at Tottenham, however, he has looked revitalised — commanding midfield battles and excelling as the team’s defensive anchor.
A full reset under Thomas Frank
Palhinha’s spell in Germany was marked by inconsistency and personal struggles, but under Thomas Frank, he’s rediscovered the confidence and form that made him one of Fulham’s standout players before his transfer abroad.
The Portuguese powerhouse has become a fixture in Tottenham’s midfield this season, combining steel and composure to help the team control transitions and neutralise counterattacks.
| Stat (2025/26 Premier League) | João Palhinha |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 14 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Tackles Made | 39 (1st in Premier League) |
| Pass Accuracy | 87% |
| Recoveries per Game | 6.2 |
source: Premier League & Sofascore – 29 October 2025
Casteleiro adds that Palhinha’s ability to “stop counterattacks, clear danger and cover every blade of grass” has made him indispensable to Frank’s setup — and one of the most effective defensive midfielders in England once again.
Back to his best for club and country
Palhinha’s performances have not gone unnoticed at the international level either. After regaining full fitness and rhythm, he has forced his way back into Roberto Martínez’s Portugal squad, featuring in three of the last four matches ahead of the World Cup year.
“The truth is that João Palhinha is in excellent form again. Thomas Frank trusts him, and he has also returned to the plans of Roberto Martínez for Portugal.” — Pedro Casteleiro, A Bola
His improved form could not have come at a better time for both club and country. Tottenham, meanwhile, are growing increasingly convinced that keeping Palhinha beyond this season is a must.
Tottenham’s permanent option looks more likely
Spurs secured Palhinha’s services on loan from Bayern Munich last summer, with an option to buy included in the deal. That clause, according to sources close to the club, is now expected to be triggered if his current level continues.
Given his consistency, leadership, and instant adaptation to life under Thomas Frank, Tottenham’s decision seems to be edging toward an inevitable conclusion.
Our View
In our view, João Palhinha’s return to the Premier League was always likely to succeed — and Tottenham’s decision to take that gamble is paying off spectacularly. His defensive timing, positional awareness, and ball-winning ability are unmatched in England right now.
The fact he leads the league in tackles underscores exactly why Pedro Casteleiro described him as “made for the Premier League.” A permanent move would not only reward his resurgence but also strengthen Spurs’ midfield for years to come.
Key Insights
- João Palhinha thriving on loan at Tottenham with 3 goals, 1 assist in 14 games.
- Leads Premier League in tackles (39).
- Portuguese media hails him as “made for the Premier League.”
- Struggled at Bayern but thriving under Thomas Frank.
- Tottenham increasingly likely to make the deal permanent.
What’s Next
Tottenham return to Premier League action on 1 November, hosting Chelsea at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Palhinha is expected to start again in midfield for Thomas Frank’s side. A strong showing in that London derby would further underline why Spurs are determined to keep the Portuguese enforcer beyond this season.
👉 Should Tottenham make João Palhinha’s transfer permanent this January?
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