Since taking over as Genoa’s coach in November 2025, Daniele De Rossi has been closely scrutinizing the role of Vitinha, the Portuguese forward whose jersey number might suggest a traditional striker but whose on-pitch positioning tells a completely different story. Vitinha, brought in permanently in 2024 after a costly €32 million move from Olympique de Marseille, has struggled to live up to expectations with only nine goals in 72 appearances for Il Grifone. Yet, De Rossi’s tactical shift deploying him further back on the pitch has revealed new facets of the player, challenging his nominal “number 9” status.
The 2006 World Cup winner has given a nuanced evaluation of Vitinha, highlighting the player’s dedication and versatility rather than pure scoring prowess. “He is a full-back who wears the number 9 by coincidence,” De Rossi remarked with a knowing smile. This statement underlines how Vitinha’s role has evolved beyond that of a conventional forward. From the first match under De Rossi’s management, Vitinha’s passion and physical commitment were evident—characteristics the coach links closely to his own playing style, valuing football intelligence combined with generosity and ceaseless effort on the pitch.
Daniele De Rossi’s tactical vision for Vitinha at Genoa
De Rossi’s experimentation with Vitinha has included roles ranging from offensive midfielder to forward, though increasingly sees him deployed in deeper positions, reshaping the player’s impact on the team. This strategic reallocation is not a mere experiment but an insight into future squad structure. Playing Vitinha in a more withdrawn role complements Genoa’s broader tactical plans and leverages his unforeseen strengths in defense and midfield, rather than relying solely on goal scoring.
This approach reflects a wider trend in football where traditional positions are blurred; attackers are expected to contribute defensively, while defenders participate in build-up play. Vitinha’s adaptation highlights how jersey numbers — like his iconic 9 — do not necessarily dictate a player’s responsibilities. The Portuguese player embodies this modern fluidity, challenging preconceived notions and emphasizing the complex demands of contemporary soccer.
Vitinha’s journey from Marseille disappointment to a key figure at Genoa
Vitinha’s €32 million transfer to Genoa from Marseille was initially seen as a gamble given his modest scoring record. However, under De Rossi’s mentorship, his role transformed, and his on-field attitude made him a central figure despite the “flop” label he carried. The coach praises his resilience, remarking on how Vitinha never gave up, showing fiery determination starting with De Rossi’s first game at the helm.
Even in matches where results no longer influenced Genoa’s standing, Vitinha pushed himself to the limit, finishing exhausted and cramping—an embodiment of his commitment and physical intensity. This dedication aligns with Genoa’s culture and De Rossi’s football philosophy, binding player and club through shared values rather than statistics alone.
How Vitinha’s unusual role impacts Genoa’s squad dynamics
Deploying Vitinha as a full-back with the number 9 jersey challenges expectations and speaks to Daniele De Rossi’s tactical ingenuity. It emphasizes function over form and illustrates how a player’s contribution can transcend the conventional framework of position and numbering. The coach’s philosophy aligns with the evolving nature of football, where adaptability and team-oriented play often trump traditional labels.
In Genoa’s squad, this versatility adds strategic depth and complicates opposition analysis, since Vitinha’s role blurs the lines between defender and attacker. This has potential long-term implications for team selection and development, making Vitinha not just a player who wears number 9 by coincidence, but a vital cog tailored to fit Genoa’s 2026 ambitions on and off the pitch.
For more insights into player adaptability and transfer news around football’s tactical evolution, explore how other talents are redefined in modern soccer at Vitinha PSG Portugal Ballon and the strategic choices shaping top clubs Jorge Mendes signs a prodigy.
