Joao Palhinha played a huge role in Tottenham Hotspur’s survival push under Roberto De Zerbi, and the midfielder has now admitted he would love to remain in north London beyond this season after rediscovering his best form during the run-in.
The 2025/26 season brought far more lows than highs for Tottenham Hotspur, with the club dragged into an unexpected relegation battle despite beginning the campaign with far loftier ambitions.
However, the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi proved to be a masterstroke on an otherwise miserable canvas, with the Italian guiding Spurs to safety after collecting 11 points from seven matches.
De Zerbi’s passion and commitment not only helped Tottenham avoid relegation but also revived the confidence of several struggling players who had endured difficult campaigns before his arrival.
Tottenham midfielder Joao Palhinha wants permanent Spurs stay
Among those to benefit most from De Zerbi’s arrival was Joao Palhinha, who came up big for Tottenham during the closing weeks of the season.
The Portuguese midfielder, who had come under scrutiny during Thomas Frank’s tenure, scored two crucial goals – first against Wolverhampton Wanderers and then in the final game of the season against Everton, where Spurs secured a vital 1-0 win.
However, Palhinha’s spell in north London could still come to an end this summer, with his loan deal expiring ahead of a return to Bayern Munich.
Speaking after the Everton clash about the difficult campaign and his future at the club, Palhinha admitted he would love to remain at Tottenham.
“Since the first day I arrived I feel at home,” Palhinha said as relayed by The Guardian. “From the supporters, the crowd. Top club. Who does not want to play for Tottenham and stay here?
“I have everything here. But this is like a marriage. What I can say to you is I would really like to be here and I enjoy it a lot this season with this club – even with it being a tough season.
“I think the next season will hopefully be really different and I truly believe,” he added. “This season will help Tottenham for the future. Analyse the season, what we did wrong, what we did well and it will be a big improvement and a big relief after the season.”
Spurs could activate Joao Palhinha buy option
It does not necessarily have to end this summer, with Tottenham holding a £26m option to buy in Palhinha’s loan agreement.
Should Spurs decide to activate the clause, they will be able to sign the Portuguese midfielder permanently as De Zerbi begins rebuilding his squad ahead of next season.
The new Tottenham boss has also reportedly made it clear that he wants Palhinha to stay in north London after the midfielder’s influential performances during the survival run-in.
However, Palhinha has also been linked with a potential move to Sporting Lisbon this summer, so watch this space.
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