Why did Tottenham Hotspur shortlist and sign Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha?

Joao Palhinha endured a difficult time at Bayern Munich. Not only did he face a midfielder whom nearly the entire Bayern fanbase wanted out, but he also faced a coach who seemed too stubborn and unwilling to give him a chance to shine – two major stumbling blocks in his career. Therefore, the 30-year-old Portuguese will continue his season at Tottenham Hotspur. Head coach Thomas Frank is excited to play with him, just not in the way you might have imagined.

In last season’s Europa League final, Manchester United was completely unable to penetrate Tottenham Hotspur’s midfield of Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Pape Matal Sarr, so they decided to first strengthen their central defense.

“His quality has always been important, but if you look at this team, I don’t think we have his quality or the all-around quality to play in a number six position,” Frank told Football London (via Tottenham HQ). Tottenham’s other midfielders were either too young or inconsistent, so the Danish tactician hoped the former Fulham player could improve the team, especially in European competitions.