Barcelona starlet Vitor Roque dominated the headlines for the first time since joining the Catalan giants on Monday morning, but not for his exploits on the pitch, but his agent’s statements off it. Amid talk of a loan move this summer, Andre Cury declared that Roque would either be sold this summer, or receive more minutes.
The 19-year-old Brazilian was signed for €30m pluys €31m in variables in January, but has seen just 310 minutes of action, and did not feature in crunch matches against Napoli, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid or Girona. Barcelona Sporting Director Deco is set to discuss the matter with Cury in the coming weeks, but Matteo Moretto has told Fabrizio Romano’s Daily Briefing that the club are asking for calm on his part, as they try to establish the best course of action.
Regardless of Cury’s comments, Xavi has not wavered in his view of Roque. He does not see the teenager as ready to compete for a starting spot in the side, and nor does he see him as a clear alternative to Robert Lewandowski or others up front as things stand.
Barcelona have four games remaining this season, and while they are still competing for second spot and qualification for the Spanish Supercup next season, Xavi’s use of Roque will remain under the microscope until the end of the season. If Roque continues to warm the bench, then it seems there will be enough ammunition for a departure, be it on loan or on a permanent deal.