Vitor Roque: Patience Amidst Limited Playing Time at FC Barcelona

Despite a hefty €40 million signing, Brazilian talent Vitor Roque continues to play a predominantly secondary role in FC Barcelona’s plans. However, neither the Catalan club nor the player himself appear to be concerned.

“After the other day with Vitor, and against Athletic, Marc played… We were looking for more direct football. Vitor will have minutes. We have to be cautious, as with all young players. He has the quality to help us,” explained FC Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández after the recent Copa del Rey match, which ended in defeat against Athletic Club. Xavi justified his decision to opt for young Marc Guiu over Brazilian Vitor Roque.

This isn’t the first time the coach has had to explain his choice of not granting playing time to the South American player. In the previous Copa del Rey match, Xavi cited minor discomfort for Roque, defending his decision not to start him against the modest Unionistas. “Vitor Roque is fine. He had a slight discomfort, which is why he played fewer minutes. He came on well even out of his natural position, and he will give us a lot,” asserted Xavi.

Absolute Tranquility According to Mundo Deportivo, Xavi’s approach aligns with the club’s desire not to rush Roque’s adaptation process, allowing him the necessary time to reach optimal form and embrace a style of play vastly different from what he practiced at his previous club, Athletico Paranaense.

On the player’s side, Sport makes it clear that, for now, the striker is not at all concerned about his limited role. Tigrinho feels comfortable both in Barcelona and at the club, believing that it’s only a matter of time before he gets more minutes. “He is convinced that his moment will come, that he will get more opportunities, make the most of them, and triumph in the blaugrana jersey. The Brazilian thinks positively, aware that he is in the phase of acclimating to a new club and a new style of football,” explains the outlet.