The midfielder has said his farewells to the north London club after playing a huge part in keeping them in the Premier League
Joao Palhinha has posted a heartfelt message to the Tottenham Hotspur and their supporters after the club decided not to sign him permanently from Bayern Munich.
The 30-year-old ended up playing a huge role in saving Spurs from relegation with seven goals and three assists, including vital match-winning strikes against Wolves and Everton in Roberto De Zerbi's run of do-or-die games at the end of the season. The Spurs boss had said he wanted to keep Palhinha once his loan expired, but the club have now splashed out £185million on Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, meaning there is no room for the former Fulham man in a packed midfield.
The Portuguese reacted to the news that he would not be returning to north London with a classy post to everyone at the club and the supporters.
"Dear COYS, I am writing this message with heartfelt gratitude for all the kindness and support you have always shown me throughout my time at this special club," he wrote.
"Representing Tottenham has had a profound impact on my life, not only professionally but also personally, and it is something I will carry with me forever. I always tried to repay, in the best way I could, all the affection, respect and trust you showed me, both on and off the pitch.
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"As I have said before, what truly defines a great institution and a great football club is its supporters. Players, managers and directors come and go, but the fans remain. You are the ones who keep the flame of this club burning, season after season.
"I could not leave without expressing my special thanks to my teammates, the club’s directors, the fitness coaches, the entire medical staff, and especially my dear Alessandra Massimi. London gave me more than a professional career, it gave me two homes that I will always carry in my heart.
"With the utmost respect and gratitude, I say goodbye to all of you. Thank you so much COYS"