Savinho announces name change after signing for Tottenham in £75m deal

Savinho has requested to be called 'Savio' after completing his £85 million switch from Manchester City to Tottenham.

Throughout his two-year spell at City, the Brazilian winger, real name Savio Moreira de Oliveira, was referred to as ‘Savinho’ -- a name that appeared on the back of his No.26 shirt in each of his 84 appearances.

It is said the addition of ‘inho’ to his name roughly translates to an affectionate way of saying ‘little’.

Speaking in an interview with the club's official website in July 2024, he explained that the origins behind being called ‘Savinho’ first cropped up in March 2024, when he was on international duty with Brazil.

“[My name change] is because in the national team, the first call-up they put Savinho on the shirt,” he said.

“People in Girona knew me more as Savinho, it was just written Savio on the shirt, you know? So I told [Manchester City] to put Savinho on the shirt. I hope it brings me luck too, this name Savinho.”

Savio will wear the number 17 shirt at Tottenham. Image credit: Getty

Now, the 22-year-old has once again asked to be called ‘Savio’ going forward.

It is not clear why the player has gone back to the name he used before joining City, when he played at Atletico Mineiro, Troyes, PSV and Girona. Neither Savio nor Tottenham have provided an explanation.

Speaking about his big-money move to Spurs, Savinho said: "It's taken a while but I'm very happy to be here. It's a wonderful opportunity at a brilliant club with one of the best managers in the world.

"As soon as I spoke to the head coach I knew I had to come. He told me he wants to help me reach the highest level, and I believe we can do that together, as a team."

Roberto De Zerbi explains reasons behind Savio signing

Savio, who could feature for Tottenham in their Carabao Cup clash against Charlton on Wednesday, has been described as a player who "brings energy, imagination and quality" in wide areas by De Zerbi.

"He has the courage to attack defenders and the ability to change a game with his creativity," the Italian added. "We’re very pleased to have him with us, and I’m looking forward to working with him, helping him continue to grow and seeing him bring his personality to the team."

Johan Lange, the club's sporting director, says Savio is someone who has been on their radar "for a while".

"He has already shown his quality at the highest level, and we believe his ability, style and mentality will be a great fit for the squad we are building here," said Lange.

"I know he will excite our supporters every time he gets on the ball and I'm looking forward to watching his development under Roberto's coaching."