Joao Palhinha has confirmed his departure from Tottenham Hotspur after a season-long loan from Bayern Munich, with the club opting against triggering the £22m permanent transfer option included in the agreement.
Palhinha's Impact at Spurs
The Portuguese midfielder spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Tottenham, making a significant impact despite the club's struggles. Manager Roberto De Zerbi was keen to keep Palhinha, naming him as one of the key players behind Spurs avoiding relegation from the Premier League. Palhinha scored the only goal in a crucial 1-0 win over Everton, a result that helped secure top-flight survival.
Farewell Message on Instagram
Taking to social media, Palhinha expressed his gratitude to the Tottenham fans, teammates, and staff. He wrote: "Dear COYS, I am writing this message with heartfelt gratitude for all the kindness and support you have always shown me throughout my time at this special club. Representing Tottenham has had a profound impact on my life, not only professionally but also personally, and it is something I will carry with me forever."
He continued: "I always tried to repay, in the best way I could, all the affection, respect and trust you showed me, both on and off the pitch. As I have said before, what truly defines a great institution and a great football club is its supporters. Players, managers and directors come and go, but the fans remain. You are the ones who keep the flame of this club burning, season after season."
Palhinha also thanked his teammates, the club's directors, fitness coaches, medical staff, and especially Alessandra Massimi. He added: "London gave me more than a professional career, it gave me two homes that I will always carry in my heart. With the utmost respect and gratitude, I say goodbye to all of you. Thank you so much COYS."
Spurs Move Quickly for Replacements
Tottenham have already secured a replacement for Palhinha, confirming the signing of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham on Thursday. Fernandes will wear the No18 shirt and has signed a six-year contract. However, his club-record £85m transfer is set to be surpassed by Tottenham's agreement to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle for £100m, with the midfielder's move expected to be announced imminently.
