by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, Oct. 21 (Xinhua) -- When Bayern coach Vincent Kompany urgently called for Joao Palhinha just eight minutes into the match, it likely came as a surprise for the Portuguese midfielder.

German international Aleksandar Pavlovic received on-pitch treatment for a broken collarbone, and Palhinha, who had endured frustrating weeks on the bench, quickly prepared to step in during the league match against Stuttgart.

Pavlovic's injury, after missing the 2024 UEFA Euro due to illness, means he will be absent ahead of Bayern's UEFA Champions League clash against Barcelona this Wednesday. This turn of events provides an unexpected opportunity for the 33-time capped Portuguese international and alters Bayern's tactical approach.

Despite being on Bayern's radar for some time, Palhinha's summer 2024 move almost didn't happen. The 50-million-euro signing from Fulham found himself behind Bayern's 20-year-old rising star Pavlovic.

"I am here to fight for my chance," the 29-year-old midfielder said, with disappointment evident on his face. Unaccustomed to being a substitute, Palhinha had to exercise patience.

With Pavlovic now sidelined for several months, Bayern gains a traditional midfield sweeper. Former Bayern coach and incoming England manager Thomas Tuchel had long called for a "holding six" and had previously identified Palhinha as his preferred choice.

While Tuchel is now part of Bayern's history, the Portuguese midfielder finally made his move to Germany. "Joao is acting with physical strength, while Aleks might have been the more conducting one," midfielder Joshua Kimmich noted about the shift.

As Palhinha takes on the more combative role, Kimmich now has to focus on guiding Bayern as an inspiring presence on the field.

This forced change could also help close Bayern's defensive gaps, as Kompany favors a risky, attacking style.

In his substitute appearance, Palhinha made a strong impression, winning the majority of his duels and assisting Harry Kane's third goal against Stuttgart.

"When in the warming up, it went through my mind, this is your big chance," Palhinha reflected, while wishing Pavlovic a speedy recovery.

While Kane grabbed headlines with a hat trick, coach Kompany offered praise for Palhinha, saying, "Our game didn't lose any quality after the substitution."

The Portuguese midfielder knows that the Stuttgart match was only the first step in his journey back to prominence, and he is aware of the need for more strong performances.

It might provide a boost for him to know he is in the starting lineup when Bayern takes on Barcelona. Enditem

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