Joao Palhinha will no longer play for Tottenham Hotspur next season. It had already seemed unlikely that the player, on loan from Bayern Munich, would be re-signed, and now the player himself has set the record straight with a farewell post.
Last season, Joao Palhinha was loaned to Tottenham by FC Bayern. He played in 33 Premier League matches for the London club, scoring five goals—and in the end, he and the Spurs narrowly avoided relegation.
It had already become unlikely in recent days that Joao Palhinha would play for Tottenham in the upcoming season—meaning the club would not exercise its purchase option. Sky reported that the Portuguese player would return to Munich for the time being. On Friday, the player then clarified at least one thing: his time with the Spurs is over.
On Instagram, he said goodbye to the Tottenham fans. “I’m writing this message with heartfelt gratitude for all the kindness and support you’ve shown me during my time at this special club,” wrote Joao Palhinha. “Representing Tottenham has had a profound impact on my life, not only professionally but also personally, and it’s something I will carry with me forever.”
Joao Palhinha’s special connection to London
The 30-year-old expressed his respect and gratitude in the post. “London has given me more than just a professional career; it has given me a home twice, and I will always carry both of them in my heart.” Tottenham was already the second club in London for which Joao Palhinha played: Between 2022 and 2024, he caught the attention of major clubs while playing for Fulham FC, and Bayern Munich ultimately made a move and signed him.
Following his loan spell, Joao Palhinha is now returning to FC Bayern for the time being, where he was unable to establish himself during his first season. After a loan spell that proved only moderately successful, the Portuguese player is now considered a candidate for sale.