Fulham star João Palhinha was on Thursday a subject in the press conference held by Portugal’s national team.
As manager Roberto Martinez spoke to local journalists, he was asked about the midfielder and his failed transfer to Bayern Munich.
In quotes relayed by Record, the coach admitted that Palhinha is mentally affected by the situation, and the time out with the national team should actually help him.
“João had a very difficult time. He’s on a different level to the best teams in the world. But on a personal level it was very difficult, because it wasn’t a possible signing, but a situation. He took a flight, he had a mental change of team. It’s very difficult.
“I think it is positive to have João here, for him and for us. The level he showed in training improved. But I think he appreciated having the family of the national team because it was a very difficult time.”
The local media is even wondering whether Palhinha is fine to play against Slovakia on Friday, and Martinez made it clear he may have to choose other options in the squad.
“We have very good options. Rúben had a very good training camp, he did well against Bosnia and Iceland. Otávio is physically very good. Danilo can play centre-back and we have good options.”
Following the failed move to Bayern Munich, Palhinha didn’t take part in Fulham’s match against Manchester City, which ended with a 5-1 win for Pep Guardiola’s side.
It seems like the time with the national team could indeed be good for the player, who’ll have more time off to let the situation sink in before he returns to play for Fulham again.
The Whites will be back in action on the 16th of September, when they receive Luton Town at Craven Cottage.
