Signing Joao Palhinha might just be the best piece of business Tottenham completed in the recent summer transfer window. The Portuguese international has instantly become a fan favourite at N17, enjoying a brilliant start to life at the club. His impact has been immediate and profound, playing a crucial role in helping the Lilywhites climb to third place in the Premier League table.
Last season, Tottenham sorely lacked a commanding presence in midfield. Under Ange Postecoglou, they were often overrun in the centre of the park, missing a natural ball-winner — someone who could break up play and recover possession efficiently.
Credit where it’s due, the Lilywhites identified this weakness during the summer and acted decisively by bringing in Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich on an initial loan deal. It’s fair to say that signing the 30-year-old has proven to be a shrewd move. Palhinha has seamlessly picked up where he left off in the Premier League before his short-lived spell in Germany.
Joao Palhinha’s instant impact at N17 has already convinced Tottenham to make his loan deal permanent in the coming months. The Lilywhites are convinced that the 30-year-old is the right player to anchor the midfield under Thomas Frank. And it is fair to say that the Portugal international is also keen to stay at the North London club for the foreseeable future.
The ex-Fulham star is finally getting to play regularly after a disastrous spell at Bayern Munich last season. When asked why he chose to join Spurs this season in an exclusive interview with A Bola, Palhinha said,
“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, who was the main person responsible for my return to England. When we feel wanted somewhere, I think that’s where we should be.”
The prolific midfielder added,
“So I made this decision very easily, honestly. 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.”
One of the key factors behind Palhinha’s decision to join Tottenham was the promise of regular game time. He also highlighted how Thomas Frank’s faith in his abilities played a decisive role in his move to North London. The midfielder was convinced that Spurs genuinely wanted him to be a vital part of their project as they aim to climb back among England’s elite, making his decision to join relatively simple.
The Portuguese powerhouse has already scored two crucial goals this season, helping Tottenham secure valuable points in the league. His strikes against Manchester City and Wolves have been instrumental in Spurs’ impressive early form, offering Thomas Frank renewed belief that his side can build on last season’s Europa League success.
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