Joao Palhinha on Tottenham’s woes, coaching influences & international glory
What are you doing? If you could relive one match from your career, what would it be?
– Joao: When I won the league with Sporting, it was during the Covid period and we had no fans in the stands. The match that won us the championship was the match where we beat Boavista. Everyone in the dressing room felt that that moment meant that our names would be written in the history of the club and that this was probably the most special match. I had other problems too, you know, when I made my debut against Liverpool in the Premier League, I drew with them at Craven Cottage… that was really special too. The game against Manchester City when I scored my first goal for Tottenham was also really special. There are several!
What are you doing? What was the most difficult moment of your career?
– Joao: I can probably say my time at Bayern. When I went there I expected to play more, but after the injury it was not easy for me to get the right chances.
What are you doing? Tell me what it was like to move away from football and grow up at home…
– Joao: I am a family person. I am a proud father, a proud son. I think what we need in our lives is to give due value to family, because without them I could not achieve anything in my life. I have two sons; I am truly a proud father and it is the best feeling you can ever feel.
What are you doing? What was young Joao like? How would your family describe you?
– Joao: I was probably not the best student at school, but I always had the effort and determination to learn. I think this is true not only on the field but also off the field. I have always been a respectful person who respects family principles and values.
What are you doing? How do you avoid football in your spare time?
-Joao: It depends on whether my family is here or not, but usually I like to spend my days off… If I don’t go to Portugal or they are here, I like to go to the city or the garden with them when the weather is nice, which is something that is not so easy here! But yes, enjoy it with your family.
What are you doing? Do you have any hobbies?
-Joao: I love playing tennis but I don’t play much because I can’t do it. [because of the risk of getting injured]. We have a lot of golfers on our team, but I like more active sports… movement. Golf is too lazy for me! I think it’s good for the mind, but I don’t think it’s the right sport for the body and for me.
