Joao Palhinha has brought in stability and composure to the Tottenham Hotspur midfield this season
Few players have stood out for Tottenham this season under Thomas Frank as much as Joao Palhinha. The Portuguese international has slotted in seamlessly into life at N17 after a difficult spell at Bayern Munich, where quickly fell down the pecking order under Vincent Kompany despite arriving on a long-term deal.
But it is fair to say that the 30-year-old has somehow managed to revive his career back again after joining the Lilywhites on a season-long loan in the summer. He has quickly become a fan favourite at N17, being one of the first names on the team-sheets under Thomas Frank. His experience and composure in the middle of the park have added an extra layer of protection and stability at the back for the North London club.
To the surprise of many fans, Palhinha has also contributed immensely in the final third of the pitch to help Spurs climb up to third in the Premier League. His goal contributions against Manchester City, Wolves, and Aston Villa have played a significant role in the North London club’s brilliant start to the season.
Joao Palhinha has transitioned well into the Tottenham side this season
Palhinha’s arrival already looks like one of the smartest pieces of business from the summer transfer window. The ex-Fulham star has been pivotal in Thomas Frank’s setup, leading by example and maintaining a remarkable level of consistency. Unsurprisingly, his performances have caught the eye of the Spurs hierarchy, who are reportedly in discussions with Bayern Munich to make his loan move permanent in the coming months.
Now, well-renowned journalist Pedro Casteleiro has heaped more praise on Palhinha following his impressive start to life in North London. Writing for A Bola (via Sport Witness), Casteleiro said,
“João Palhinha was made for the Premier League. 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.”
The journalist added,
“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. He played in three of the last four matches, and all of this comes in a World Cup year.”
Casteleiro’s assessment on Palhinha is hard to disagree with. The 30-year-old’s combative style, tactical awareness, and leadership qualities make him perfectly suited to Premier League football. His resurgence under Thomas Frank has not only solidified Tottenham’s midfield, but also helped him reclaim his spot in Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad.
The onus is now on the ex-Fulham star to maintain his exceptional form as Tottenham enter a crucial phase of their campaign. With the World Cup on the horizon, Palhinha has a golden opportunity to cement his place in Portugal’s final squad, provided he continues performing at the same high level in the weeks ahead.
