Sporting CP ended a 19-year Primeira Liga drought last season and finished second in 2021/22.
At the heart of their improvement was João Palhinha, the physically imposing holding midfielder.
A former academy product, Palhinha’s return from a two-year loan at Braga secured the Sporting midfield, giving them one of the top defensive sides in Portugal.
The past two seasons have also led to Palhinha’s inclusion in the Portuguese national team.
Time at Braga played a massive role in his development, but it was with Sporting Portugal that saw him leap in status.
After two excellent seasons, it’s natural to find him among the transfer rumours.
With compatriot Rúben Neves linked to Man United, Arsenal and Barcelona, Wolves need a new pivot, and Palhinha is the long-desired target.
There’s talk of an “imminent deal” between the West Midlands club and Sporting.
This transfer, as well as the fate of Neves and Matheus Nunes, signals a time of transition for each club’s midfield.
With the Portuguese presence on their roster, Wolverhampton fans will likely have an idea of the player.
For those who aren’t familiar with Pahlinha or wish to improve their understanding of his qualities, this scout report profiles his talents and explores his top traits through tactical analysis.
João Palhinha Style Of Play
Lets start the analysis with a look at Palhinhas data profile.
Rather than creating a comparison relative to Portuguese Primeira Liga defensive midfielders, the profile below shows his percentile rank among pivots and central midfielders in midfield fours across UEFAs top six leagues.
From an attacking standpoint, he uses the dribble very well, frequently attacking space and winning his duels.
He stands at 190cm and is a physically strong player, able to hold off opposing defenders.
Although hes
