Colo Colo have secured special permission from the Chilean Football Federation (ANFP) to allow Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha to wear his famous nickname on the back of his shirt.
The 40-year-old joined the Chilean Liga de Primera giants on a six-month contract earlier this week following his remarkable World Cup campaign, where he became one of the tournament's breakout stars.
League regulations normally require players to wear their legal names on their jerseys, with ANFP rules stating that "nicknames, appellations or sobriquets will not be permitted."
Under those rules, the veteran goalkeeper would have been required to play as Josimar Jose Evora Dias.
However, Colo Colo successfully appealed for an exemption, allowing him to continue wearing "Vozinha" — a nickname that translates to "little granny" in Portuguese.
Speaking at his unveiling, Vozinha explained the personal significance behind the name.
"It is the name I have used my entire life," he said.
"In Cape Verde, it holds great significance and a rich history, and now it does globally as well."
"If my grandmother were alive today, I think she would be proud. I hope to keep using it for the rest of my career as a tribute."
Vozinha received a warm welcome from Colo Colo supporters after arriving in Santiago on Sunday before linking up with his new teammates in training two days later.
The experienced goalkeeper became a global sensation after helping Cape Verde earn their first-ever FIFA World Cup point with a draw against Spain in the group stage.
His performances helped guide the African nation into the knockout rounds, where they pushed eventual finalists Argentina to extra time in the last 32.
The impressive campaign earned Vozinha a place in FIFA's Team of the Tournament, while his popularity skyrocketed, with his Instagram following growing from 50,000 to nearly 30 million. His impact even extended beyond football, with a newly discovered species of sea slug being named in his honour.
Vozinha's career has included spells in Slovakia, Angola, Moldova, Cyprus and, most recently, Portuguese second-tier side Chaves.
Despite spending much of his career outside Europe's top leagues, the goalkeeper said he always believed he belonged at a major club.
Joining Colo Colo, Chile's most successful club with 34 Primera Division titles and 14 Copa Chile trophies, represents the pinnacle of his club career.
"The decision was very clear. Despite playing in smaller leagues for clubs that weren't exactly giants, deep down I always told myself I was a 'big club' player," he said.
"So when Colo Colo came calling, there was no doubt. From day one, I knew where I wanted to play. I received many offers but Colo Colo was always the priority."
"The World Cup was the best thing that ever happened to me in football, but that is in the past now. Being here representing Colo Colo — a massive club with a rich history — is the highlight of my club career."
