Joao Palhinha has consistently performed for an inconsistent Tottenham Hotspur team this season
Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has come under heavy criticism for consistently deploying two defensive-minded midfielders, Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur, in his starting lineup. While the Lilywhites have become more solid and compact in the middle of the park, their creativity has suffered, leaving them short of ideas when it comes to breaking down organised defences and creating clear chances for their attackers.
Summer signing Joao Palhinha has arguably been one of Tottenham’s standout performers this season, bringing composure, leadership, and defensive stability to the midfield. The Portuguese international has excelled at breaking up opposition play and providing extra cover for the backline. However, his inclusion in the starting eleven often leaves Spurs a man short when they have possession.
The 30-year-old is not a naturally progressive midfielder. He lacks the ability to consistently play incisive passes from deep… a quality that several other Premier League holding midfielders possess. This limitation has been a problem for Tottenham, as they continue to struggle with ball retention and effective distribution in midfield, often allowing opponents to dictate the tempo of the game.
Joao Palhinha is not at fault for Tottenham’s struggles in attack
Thomas Frank’s tactical approach is built around pragmatism and quick transitions, favouring counter-attacking football, rather than long spells of possession. While this setup can be effective given Tottenham’s pace and profile of players, it limits their ability to dominate games through midfield control, especially when Palhinha is part of the engine room.
Even so, it would be unfair to lay the blame for Spurs’ attacking struggles solely at Palhinha’s feet. Journalist Mitch Fretton has defended the midfielder, questioning the criticism he has received from certain sections of the media. Taking to X, Fretton said,
“Not sure how I’ve seen Palhinha dominating the headlines as the core of our problems when he’s probably stopped us conceding double the amount of goals so far this season.”
Fretton cannot understand why Joao Palhinha is being blamed by certain sections of the media for Tottenham’s poor performances in recent weeks. If anything, the Portuguese international has been one of the standout players for the Lilywhites this season. He has consistently made an impact on both ends of the pitch, scoring some crucial goals for the North London club already.
Remarkably, Palhinha currently leads the Premier League charts in successful tackles (27), underlining his defensive excellence and work rate. His presence in midfield often feels like having two players in one, being a tireless ball-winner who offers security and balance. While he may not provide the progressive spark that Spurs need, his influence and importance to Thomas Frank’s system cannot be understated.
