João Palhinha will be leaving FC Bayern Munich to join Benfica Lisbon, as the German giant announced on Wednesday. The 31-year-old Portuguese international is therefore returning to his hometown, a city where he began his professional career at Sporting Lisbon.
Max Eberl, the sport director for FC Bayern, stated that the situation with Palhinha was discussed openly, and a mutual path was reached. “He decided to continue his career in his home country. We thank him for his time at FC Bayern and wish him all the best for the future,” Eberl said.
Palhinha initially moved to Munich in the summer of 2024 from Premier League side FC Fulham. During his first season in Bavaria, he made 25 official appearances and helped FC Bayern win the German Championship. His most recent spell included a loan period with Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League.
