Vitor Roque’s Puzzle: Finding the Right Fit
Vitor Roque faced a challenging initiation in his first start for FC Barcelona against Celta Vigo, where his performance raised questions about his adaptability on the wing. While his natural position is as a ‘9’, Xavi Hernández often deploys the Brazilian on the left, showcasing versatility but potentially impacting his effectiveness.
Against Celta, Roque lost possession nine times, won only two of six duels, and had a passing accuracy of 8/12 before being substituted before the hour mark. Although he has scored twice while coincidentally sharing the pitch with Lewandowski, his impact has been more prominent coming off the bench in games with a more open dynamic.
Challenges of Starting
Starting alongside Lewandowski posed a unique challenge for Roque, facing fresh defenses and operating in tighter spaces. The Brazilian struggled with accuracy against Celta, with notable shortcomings in ball retention and duels.
Ideal Positioning
Finding the perfect role for Vitor Roque in the starting lineup isn’t a straightforward task. Lewandowski’s undisputed status as Barcelona’s primary striker means any adjustments must complement rather than replace the Polish ‘killer.’ Xavi Hernández’s tactical flexibility is limited regarding traditional strike partnerships, making it crucial to integrate Roque effectively within the team structure.
Xavi’s Dilemma
Xavi faces the dilemma of unlocking Roque’s goal-scoring potential without compromising Lewandowski’s central role. The Brazilian has showcased glimpses of his scoring prowess in his early days at Barcelona, presenting an asset that should not be overlooked.
Champions League Considerations
As Barcelona approaches the return leg against Napoli in the Champions League, the trident from Vigo might not be replicated. Raphinha could feature if Xavi opts for a three-striker formation, or a fourth midfielder might be introduced. Vitor Roque, while waiting for his chance, remains a valuable asset with ample goals to contribute to Barcelona’s cause.
