João Palhinha only joined Benfica at one person's request; find out who | OneFootball

Marco Silva and João Palhinha are working together again, this time at Benfica, after spending two seasons side by side at Fulham. The reunion at the Luz did not happen by chance: the signing of the Portugal international was an explicit request from the Eagles' coach, who knows the midfielder’s qualities well.

João Palhinha has already had the chance to officially wear the Eagles shirt, coming on in the 31st minute of the match against Estoril Praia to replace the injured Enzo Barrenechea. During his spell at Fulham, the number 36 shirt established himself as one of the defensive pillars of Marco Silva’s team.

The Portuguese midfielder stood out in the Premier League for his ball-winning ability and intensity in midfield, even going on to lead one of the best leagues in the world in defensive actions during that period. Now, he reunites with a coach who knows his game inside out and believes he can add new qualities to Benfica’s midfield.

Before the Portugal international’s debut for the Eagles, Marco Silva spoke about the reunion and explained what Palhinha can offer the team. The coach began by recalling Palhinha’s quick adaptation to English football, highlighting the way the midfielder managed to establish himself in the Premier League.

"As for the two years with me, he adapted easily to the Premier League, even coming from Portugal, because it is a league that suits him. In terms of profile, he is a No. 6, like Enzo, but they have different profiles. He adds more intensity and also a more technical side, but we have to highlight the good performances Enzo has been delivering in recent matches," he said.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.