Vasco da Gama has officially confirmed the signing of midfielder Tchê Tchê, solidifying their roster for the 2025 season. The 32-year-old player, who previously enjoyed considerable success with Botafogo, will join the team from January 1, 2025. This transfer marks the end of Tchê Tchê's tenure at Botafogo, where he has been praised for his leadership and versatility on the field.
Tchê Tchê's career at Botafogo has been nothing short of remarkable. He joined the club during the era of SAF management, where he quickly became one of the team’s stalwarts, appearing 150 times, scoring five goals, and assisting on seven others. His contributions led the club to significant victories, including the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa Libertadores, both achieved during the 2024 season. John Textor, owner of Botafogo SAF, acknowledged Tchê Tchê's importance to the team on Instagram, stating, "Todo ciclo tem um fim e acredito que o seu terminou da melhor forma possível… Muito boa sorte, continue sua linda carreira." This translates to, "Every circle has its end, and I believe yours ended as beautifully as possible... Good luck, continue your lovely career."
The decision to bring Tchê Tchê to Vasco aligns with the club's strategy to revamp its squad following a challenging 2024 season, where they finished tenth in the Brasileirão with 50 points. After appointing Fábio Carille as the new head coach, the club is committed to strengthening their midfield, which has been identified as weak. Tchê Tchê’s signing marks the club's first major acquisition, instilling optimism among fans for the upcoming year.
Vasco da Gama's management is hopeful about Tchê Tchê's imminent arrival, believing he can help improve the current team dynamics alongside his new teammate Philippe Coutinho, who also joined the squad last year. Known for his agility and ability to shoot from distance, Tchê Tchê is expected to play a pivotal role as he integrates with Vasco's existing lineup.
The details of Tchê Tchê’s contract reflect the club's strategic planning—he will sign for one year, with the potential for automatic renewal based on performance incentives. This setup signals the club’s intention to invest wisely, as they continue to bolster their roster for competitions including the Campeonato Carioca, Copa do Brasil, Copa Sul-Americana, and the Brasileirão.
Vasco fans have expressed excitement over the prospect of Tchê Tchê's arrival, particularly due to his proven track record and leadership on the field. The club hopes his experience will help them avert the struggles faced during the last season when the threat of relegation loomed large.
The club has also been actively seeking additional reinforcements, with reports indicating interest in bringing more players to strengthen both their offensive and defensive lineups. Their first match of the 2025 season will see them face Nova Iguaçu, whose successful run as the 2024 vice-champions poses another challenge for the team.
Vasco's management has been clear about their ambitions for the upcoming year, aiming not just for survival but for competing at higher levels within the tournament standings. With Tchê Tchê slated to join the squad shortly, the stage is set for what fans hope will be a transformative season for their beloved club.
