Ahead of the crucial UEFA Champions League encounter against Benfica, Joao Palhinha must feel as if he's been transported to a different world.

For weeks, there has been little attention on the Portuguese international following his move from Fulham to Bayern Munich last summer. The €50 million the Bavarians paid made headlines, but Palhinha appeared to vanish on the bench, losing the starting spot to Alex Pavlovic.

However, due to Pavlovic's shoulder injury, the 33-time capped international was thrust into action. While he's been making more statements since returning to the pitch, attention has reached new heights ahead of the match against Benfica.

Born in Lisbon, with his parents and brother still living near the Portuguese capital, Palhinha has become a sought-after figure in the media.

"It's a final for us," said the former Fulham and Sporting midfielder, sounding the alarm for the 2020 treble winners.

Despite Bayern Munich riding a wave of success in the domestic league, the pressure from a disappointing Champions League campaign is mounting. With two losses in their first three group-stage matches in the 2024/25 season, this week's clash is a must-win for the Bavarians, currently ranked 23rd.

Wins against Benfica, PSG, Shakhtar Donetsk, Feyenoord, and Slovan Bratislava are essential to secure a spot in the top eight and direct qualification for the knockout stage.

Following three consecutive wins in the league and the German Cup (with a combined 12-0 scoreline), confidence is building, Palhinha said. "But we all know what's next."

The Portuguese also acknowledged Benfica's recent surge under coach Bruno Lage, which includes a 4-0 victory over Atletico Madrid.

With the 2025 Champions League final set to take place in Munich on May 31, Bayern's goal is clear.

"But before we talk about the final, we have important tasks ahead," Palhinha emphasized, referring a recent 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa and a 4-1 setback against Barcelona.

The loss to Barca still weighs on the team, Palhinha said, adding that coach Vincent Kompany's side is determined to turn things around.

"We want to make up for that, it drives us. We need to prove our quality," he added. As Palhinha becomes a vital presence, closing gaps in midfield has taken on greater importance in Bayern's entertaining but risky style of play.

A fierce, determined approach is needed to take on Benfica, Palhinha noted. "We have a fantastic team with high quality," he said, expressing confidence. "It's a challenge, no doubt, but with this squad, I believe we can handle the pressure and the challenges."

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