Vitor Roque Reflects on Challenges During Barcelona Stint: 'I Had Some Bad Moments There'

Vitor Roque Reflects on Challenging Barcelona Spell and Bright Future at Real Betis

WHAT HAPPENED?
Vitor Roque has opened up about his difficult six-month stint at Barcelona before moving to Real Betis on a season-long loan. The young Brazilian admitted he struggled during his time at Camp Nou, feeling unhappy with his limited opportunities and the management style of then-coach Xavi.

THE BIGGER PICTURE
Barcelona signed Roque from Athletico Paranaense in July 2023, with the plan for him to join the team in January 2024 after finishing the Brazilian football season. However, his time with the Catalan giants was far from ideal.

Roque made just 16 appearances, scoring two goals and totaling only 353 minutes on the pitch. Despite being touted as Robert Lewandowski's successor, he started only twice as Barcelona fell short in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League. Eventually, he was loaned to Real Betis, with an option to buy or extend the loan for another year.

The 19-year-old has since flourished at Betis, scoring five goals in 14 matches across all competitions under Manuel Pellegrini. Roque described his struggles at Barcelona as a valuable learning experience, contrasting them with his current success in Andalusia.

WHAT VITOR ROQUE SAID
Speaking to Real Betis’ official channel (via SPORT), Roque shared:
"When I arrived at Barcelona, I had few opportunities and no time to adapt. The truth is, I had some bad moments there, but they serve as a learning experience. I'm very happy to be here now. The things I learned there are helping me today, and I'm grateful for that."

WHAT'S NEXT FOR VITOR ROQUE?
Although Roque was not called up for Brazil’s recent international fixtures against Venezuela and Uruguay, he aims to catch the eye of the Selecao selectors as he continues his impressive form at Betis. Up next, Roque will look to make an impact in Betis’ LaLiga clash against Valencia on Saturday, November 23.