Vitor Roque’s Emerging Impact and Insights on Iñigo Martínez and Marc Casadó

Vitor Roque is Providing Us with a Lot” As of today, nothing has changed.

Vitor Roque joined Barcelona during the winter transfer market to strengthen Xavi’s team’s forward line. Despite playing in only one starting lineup among the nine matches he participated in, the Brazilian forward has scored two goals. Adapting to a position that is not his natural one, Xavi explained that Roque’s adjustment has been positive, emphasizing his ability to make a difference coming off the bench. “Vitor is coming from an injury, adapting, getting match fitness, and game rhythm. Lewandowski usually plays as the number nine, so it’s been difficult for him to play in his position. He is a young player and has adapted well to the wide positions, cutting inside and utilizing space; he came off the bench and made a difference, scoring against Osasuna. It’s just a matter of time, and he can give us a lot. In fact, he is already doing so,” concluded Xavi.

Iñigo Martínez One of the key figures in the San Mamés match will be Iñigo Martínez. The Basque center-back returns to his former home after five seasons, having moved from Real Sociedad for €32 million, the value of his release clause. Despite the controversy surrounding his departure with a free transfer and criticism from Athletic fans, Xavi expressed confidence in Martínez’s readiness for the game. “I see him calm and prepared to play; he also returned to San Sebastián and had a great game. I don’t think his mentality or performance will change. He is ready, professional, and knows that this match’s extra motivation can be beneficial,” said the Barcelona coach. Iñigo Martínez missed the Copa del Rey match that Barcelona played at San Mamés due to a muscular injury.

Marc Casadó However, Marc Casadó will not be in San Mamés. The young midfielder from the Barcelona B team was not included in the squad for the match against Athletic and will play for Rafa Márquez’s side against Real Unión. Casadó, a regular participant in first-team training, is yet to make his debut in La Liga. Xavi explained the reasons why Casadó has not yet received minutes with the senior team. “You always ask about those who don’t play. It’s due to the competition. Ahead of him, there’s Oriol Romeu, and now we’ve placed Christensen there, who is feeling comfortable and performing well. Marc is a very young player who has time to succeed at Barcelona. It’s difficult to get minutes at Barcelona due to high competition, but in my opinion, he has the qualities to be a first-team player.”