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Despite the player’s own stated wishes, Joao Palhinha has no future prospects at Bayern Munich. Speaking after Saturday’s 2-1 preseason friendly away defeat to Wehen Wiesbaden, Freund confirmed that the Portuguese midfielder and Sacha Boey are no longer expected to play significant roles in Munich.
“They’re training with us, but they won’t play a major role here anymore—they’re aware of that,” Freund said. “The plan is for them to take the next step elsewhere.”
Palhinha evidently has other ideas.
“The plan is to keep my spot here,” the 31-year-old told reporters only minutes later.
Palhinha unwilling to accept Bayern exit
The midfielder returns from his Tottenham loan with his Bayern career appearing effectively over. Freund described both Palhinha and Boey as players who remain attractive to other clubs, but emphasized that permanent departures represent Bayern’s preferred solution.
Another loan has not been completely ruled out. Palhinha nevertheless remains under contract through 2028 and appears prepared to report for pre-season with the intention of changing the club’s mind.
As noted in previous Get German Football News coverage, Palhinha already felt that he was denied a fair opportunity during his first season in Bavaria. His return therefore sets up another potentially uncomfortable battle for playing time.
Bara Sapoko Ndiaye leaves little room for comeback
Bayern’s midfield planning offers Palhinha little encouragement.
Kicker reports that the German champions have reached an agreement to sign Bara Sapoko Ndiaye permanently from Gambinos Stars Africa for well below €5m. The 18-year-old impressed Vincent Kompany during four Bundesliga appearances last season and is expected to take the squad place vacated by Leon Goretzka.
Ndiaye will develop behind Joshua Kimmich, Aleksandar Pavlović and Tom Bischof. Bayern’s decision to retain the Gambian talent also contributed to Noël Aséko’s €12m transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt.
Palhinha may intend to fight. Bayern, however, appear to have already constructed their midfield without him.
