OffsAIde
·25 August 2026
João Palhinha edges towards Benfica move to revive Portugal hopes and catch Jorge Jesus’s eye

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Yahoo sportsOffsAIde
·25 August 2026

According to Glorioso 1904, João Palhinha is close to joining Benfica and views the Luz as a chance to relaunch his Portugal prospects, with a possible reunion with Jorge Jesus in mind.
The midfielder is understood to have weighed sporting factors before pushing ahead with a switch that could mark a new phase and restore his prominence.
The Portugal international wants to be a regular pick again and believes the move could help. After missing the last World Cup, he sees regaining rhythm and taking a major role at Benfica as important steps towards a recall.
Any transfer would also carry added significance given Jorge Jesus. The coach knows Palhinha well from their Sporting days and could figure in national-team considerations if the defensive midfielder recovers consistency and previous levels.
Palhinha, 31, has 37 caps and two goals for the senior side, with his last appearance on 14 October last year, and he has a Nations League title. If the deal is confirmed and he establishes himself in Benfica’s midfield, he could re-enter the national-team discussion.
Source: Glorioso 1904
“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”







































