JOAO Palhinha said it was “one of the happiest days of my life” after he completed a move to Bayern Munich from Fulham.
Palhinha, 29, has signed a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
“This is one of the happiest days of my life. I’m now playing for one of the top clubs in Europe,” Palhinha said on Bayern’s website. “It’s a dream come true for me, and I’m very proud of that. I’m looking forward to the atmosphere and the fans at the Allianz Arena. I want to enjoy success with FC Bayern and win titles – I’ll give it my all.”
Max Eberl, Bayern board member for sport said: “Joao Palhinha was highly sought after by FC Bayern even last summer – and rightly so. It was important that we never lost touch. João really wanted to come to Bayern, and we need players like that. He’s an important building block for our future. He’s once again demonstrated his strengths on the big stage at the Euros and brings a lot of experience, having previously played at a Euros and World Cup, and making around 300 appearances in the Portuguese and English leagues. He will give us greater stability in the centre.”
Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund added: “We kept at it since last summer and now finally have João Palhinha with us. He will be very valuable for FC Bayern. João is strong in tackles and very good in the air. He can give a team structure and plays consistent and very mature football. He also has great character and is a real leader. Bayern fans can look forward to Joao Palhinha.”
