Joao Palhinha has sent a touching message to Tottenham Hotspur fans after the end of his loan spell, and he may have hinted whether he expects to return to the club or not.
While Spurs fans certainly took time to warm to the Portuguese international, he has ended the season as one of the most popular players in the squad.
The 30-year-old has stepped up and made a massive impact in Tottenham’s final run-in, and the Lilywhites may well have gone down if not for his contributions.
That is perhaps why Roberto De Zerbi has reiterated he wants to keep Palhinha at Spurs, and the experienced midfielder has now sent an interesting message.
Joao Palhinha admits he is proud to have represented Tottenham
After the win over Everton, Palhinha confidently asserted that Spurs will be better next season, which some Tottenham fans may have seen as a sign that he expects to return to N17.
He also revealed that he would like to make his move to Tottenham permanent.
However, the midfielder has struck a slightly different tone in his latest message, ending it with the revelation that he will always be proud of having represented Spurs.
The 30-year-old praised the Tottenham fans for the way they got behind the team at a difficult time, suggesting that the supporters make the club great.
Palhinha wrote on Instagram: “The reflection of all the emotion experienced throughout this season! When I arrived here, I knew Tottenham was a great club, but great clubs are not measured only by their league positions, they are also measured by the fans who represent them. And you showed that on the decisive moments.
“I don’t have the words to thank you all for your support after such a difficult season collectively, with so many things happening along the way. This will undoubtedly be a season that will make the club stronger and better prepared for the future. The pride and pleasure of representing Tottenham is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. COYS! Thank you.”
Palhinha could snub Spurs in favour of a return to Sporting Lisbon
Reports over recent weeks have indicated that Sporting Lisbon are ready to battle Tottenham for the midfielder, even though the Lilywhites have an option to buy the player.
It has been suggested that Palhinha may prefer to return to Portugal due to personal and familial reasons.
Sporting are thought to be confident of re-signing their former player, and the 30-year-old’s latest comments do suggest that he does not expect to return to N17.