Tottenham Hotspur have altered Radu Dragusin‘s squad number following the arrival of Joao Palhinha. The club is still finalising shirt numbers with the new season approaching. This change accommodates Palhinha, who has a strong connection to the number six. The Portuguese international‘s signing adds depth to the squad.
Radu Dragusin makes way for Joao Palhinha at Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur completed the signing of Joao Palhinha on loan with an option to buy. The deal includes a €30 million option to make the move permanent. Palhinha brings significant experience from his time in Portugal, Germany, and England.
Before the official announcement, it was revealed that several shirt numbers were available for Joao Palhinha. As a result, Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that Radu Dragusin will now wear the number three shirt.
Tottenham Hotspur confirm shirt number switch
Radu Dragusin previously wore the number six shirt for Tottenham Hotspur. His switch now makes the number six available for Joao Palhinha. This allows Palhinha to continue wearing a number he favors.
Throughout his career, Joao Palhinha has preferred shirt numbers containing the digit six. These include 66, 16, 26, and the classic number six. Tottenham Hotspur have now confirmed that Palhinha will be the club’s new number six.
Joao Palhinha explains significance of number six
Speaking about his choice, Joao Palhinha explained his connection to the number six. “I try to choose always a number with a six – sometimes it’s not available but since I started my career, it was a number that I’ve had with me because of my family.”
“It means a lot for me because of my grandfather… it’s the day that he left our family and since my grandfather died, if I have a look, a lot of important things in my life have happened on this day, with the number six. I can remember my first goal… everything that has been important in my career – not just the career, but in other things as well – most of the days have the number six.”
“I’m a bit superstitious and I believe always that this number has an important meaning for me and my family and this is why I want to keep, if possible, the number with me on the shirt.” The Portuguese international has worn the number six at Sporting and for his national team.
Palhinha’s playing style fits the profile of a traditional number six. He is aggressive, relentless, and statistically dominant. During his time in the Premier League, no player registered more tackles than the Portuguese midfielder.
The change in squad numbers highlights the importance of Joao Palhinha to Tottenham Hotspur. Securing his preferred number further integrates him into the team. This attention to detail can only benefit the club as they approach the new Premier League season.
