Joao Palhinha opens up on his decision to join Tottenham on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich
Tottenham Hotspur showed their ambition in the summer transfer window following the appointment of Thomas Frank as Ange Postecoglou’s successor in the dugout, making several signings.
Apart from splashing the cash on the likes of Mohammed Kudus, Kota Takai, Mathys Tel and Xavi Simons, the north Londoners also dipped into the loan market. They raided Bayern Munich for the loan signing of Joao Palhinha, bringing him back to the Premier League only a year after he decided to leave Fulham for the Bundesliga.
Joao Palhinha has begun reviving his fading fortunes and answering his critics at Tottenham. The 30-year-old has taken no time to make his mark in N17, becoming a mainstay in the middle of the park in Thomas Frank’s team by producing solid displays.
Joao Palhinha opens up on his decision to sign for Tottenham
The Portugal international endured a tough time at Bayern, even though he ended up winning the Bundesliga title in his debut campaign. He was not favoured by coach Vincent Kompany, who wanted skilled technicians in midfield to operate in his system.
With the World Cup happening in the summer of 2026, it was important for Palhinha to find a club where he will get regular minutes. Tottenham came calling for his services and he chose to join them in the summer.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ One on One podcast, the defensive midfielder has explained why he decided to join Spurs. He says it was an “easy decision” to chose the north London club because of its history and top facilities, and also credited Frank behind the move.
“To be fair, it was an easy decision for me. Because when you feel that someone, like Thomas in this case, wants you, it makes everything easier. And of course, we’re talking about a club with a lot of history, this environment, top facilities, I think you have inside of this package, everything,” Palhinha said.
Palhinha wants to stay at Tottenham permanently
Ex-Spurs scout Bryan King has urged the Lilywhites to trigger the £27m buy option in Palhinha’s contract. Such has been his impact in N17, with Tottenham also planning to sign him permanently from Bayern. They are not willing to wait until next summer and want to conclude negotiations in January itself.
As far as Palhinha is concerned, the midfielder also wants to stay with Spurs beyond his loan spell. In short, he would be happy if the club take up the buy option as the Portuguese wants to stay in the Premier League permanently. The ex-Sporting CP man has become an instant hit within the Lilywhites’ faithful, contributing at both ends of the pitch.
Palhinha has certainly elevated Tottenham’s midfield with his defensive prowess, reading of the game and experience. Thus, signing him permanently from Bayern stands as an absolute no-brainer.