World Cup star Vozinha, 40, to be offered surprise transfer right after the tournament ends
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has been one of the big surprises of the World Cup so far – and at 40 years old, his club career might be heading for a wonderful new chapter.
He made a total of 18 saves in the tournament, helping Cape Verde reach the last 16. Vozinha made an amazing seven saves in their 0-0 draw with Spain during the group stage. The team also managed draws against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia, finishing second in their group.
Their World Cup run ended with a close 3-2 loss to the defending champions, Argentina, in the round of 32. Cape Verde fought hard, equalizing twice and pushing the match into extra time. Although the game ended with an own goal, making it tough for Vozinha as Argentina scored three goals, he still showed great skills.
Thanks to the digital age, Vozinha’s popularity has exploded on social media. Before the World Cup, he had around 50,000 Instagram followers – now that number has jumped to 25 million! Most of these new fans came after the match with Spain, and his following kept growing as Cape Verde went further in the tournament.
At the club level, Vozinha is currently a free agent after his contract with Portuguese second-division team Chaves ended last month. He shared the news before the World Cup started. Chaves’ manager, Vitor Martins, said, “He’s at a unique stage in his life and career, playing in a World Cup at 40 years old. I believe he will find the best path for himself, even if it’s not with us. He always showed great professionalism.”
No one would have expected Vozinha to end up playing against Lionel Messi in a World Cup knockout game, but that’s exactly what happened – and he might even get to play alongside Messi soon.
According to Portuguese news site Record, Inter Miami is interested in signing Vozinha after the World Cup. The MLS club reportedly holds him in high regard and wants to bring him on board as a free agent. Mexican outlet El Informador added that while no official deal is done yet, Inter Miami owner David Beckham is keen to sign him, with talks expected to get more serious in the near future.
Inter Miami already has Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair as their number one after signing him earlier this year. Vozinha would likely be a backup at the club, but his experience and leadership would be valuable both on and off the field.
Inter Miami is currently second in the Western Conference with 31 points from 15 games, just two points behind leaders Nashville, who have played one game fewer. It looks like Vozinha’s next adventure could be in the MLS, and fans will be watching closely!