The hero who saved Tottenham, is he leaving? On questions about a transfer, he said, "I'll just watch the future"... De Zerbi sends a love call to stay

*This content was translated by AI.

João Palhinha (31), who saved Tottenham, shared his overwhelming feelings about staying.

On the 25th (Korea time), Tottenham defeated Everton 1-0 in the final 38th round home match of the '2025-2026 English Premier League (EPL)' held at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, UK, thanks to Palhinha's winning goal.

Tottenham finished the season in 17th place, just above the relegation zone, with a final total of 41 points (10 wins, 11 draws, 17 losses). This marks their second consecutive season surviving on the brink of relegation, following last season when Son Heung-min played.

West Ham, which was competing with Tottenham for 18th place, defeated Leeds United 3-0 in their final match but finished with only 39 points (10 wins, 9 draws, 19 losses) and was relegated to the Championship (second division) for next season. The teams confirmed for relegation this season are West Ham, 19th-place Burnley, and 20th-place Wolverhampton.

Palhinha's first-half goal in the 43rd minute became the decisive goal that secured the team's survival in the top flight. During a corner kick situation, Palhinha's header struck the right side of the goalpost and bounced out, but he struck it again with his left foot to send the ball into the net. Palhinha celebrated by hugging his teammates tightly and then performed a 'heart ceremony' toward the home fans.

According to the UK's BBC, Palhinha said after the match, "Today is one of the most special days in my life," expressing his overwhelming emotions.

He also added, "There are many people beyond the players who dedicate themselves to the club and make a living," showing thoughtful consideration for the club staff.

Palhinha evaluated, "Although it was a difficult season that fell short of Tottenham's expectations, this experience will be a great foundation for the team's future."

He placed greater meaning on the team's survival than on his own goal. Palhinha said, "A goal is just a goal; it doesn't matter who plays or who scores. I only desperately wanted the team to win." He continued, "Thanks to the players' dedication and the fans' enthusiastic support, we were able to stay. Our fans deserve to enjoy better results than this season."

He also spoke about manager Roberto De Zerbi's request for him to stay. Palhinha took a cautious stance, saying, "The manager's words are truly happy, but we need to watch the future more closely." At the same time, he expressed deep affection, stating, "I genuinely enjoy and love living here with my family and being part of a top institution like Koo Dan-eul (CEO)."

Tottenham's season this year was eventful. The decline began last summer after captain Son Heung-min transferred to LA FC in Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States. The newly launched system under manager Thomas Frank ended in just eight months due to poor results. His successor, Igor Tudor, was also dismissed after just 44 days amid the worst record of five losses in seven matches.

The 'firefighter' Roberto De Zerbi saved the team from the brink. Tottenham, reorganized under De Zerbi, caught Wolverhampton and Aston Villa in succession, allowing them to breathe a sigh of relief. Although they showed an unstable image by drawing with Leeds and losing to Chelsea, they ultimately secured their survival by defeating Everton in the final match.

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*This content was translated by AI.