6 João Palhinha
João Palhinha, 1995-07-09, Midfielder for Portugal, plays for Bayern Munich. 40 international caps, 2 goals. Part of Portugal's 2026 World Cup Group K squad.
Biography
Bayern Munich defensive midfielder and Portugal's midfield shield. Currently plying his trade at Bayern Munich, an industrious midfielder, João Palhinha excels at dictating tempo and linking defense to attack, acting as the creative engine for Portugal. Has earned 40 international caps, scoring 2 goals. Set to compete with Portugal at the 2026 World Cup, building on the team's 8 previous tournament appearances.
Career Timeline
He made his full debut in 2021, and was chosen in the squads for the 2022 World Cup and two European Championships (2020 and 2024), also winning the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League.
In July 2022, he was signed by Premier League side Fulham for £20 million, spending two seasons with the club and helping them achieve mid-table finishes in both.
Palhinha finished second with Portugal at the 2014 European Under-19 Championship.