FC Barcelona has had a special relationship with Brazilian players throughout its history. Legendary names such as Romario, Rivaldo, Ronaldo and Ronaldinho have left an indelible mark on the club. Their joyful and creative style has fitted perfectly with Barça's philosophy.
Now it is Raphinha who seems to be occupying a key place in the team. However, not all Brazilians have had the same luck. Vitor Roque has left on loan to Real Betis and everything indicates that he will not wear the Barça jersey again.
| Raphinha accepts that he will no longer play for Barça
Raphinha has taken on the role of captain at Barcelona. He tried his best to help Vitor Roque adapt to the team. His arrival generated a lot of expectations, but things didn't go as expected. Vitor never managed to feel comfortable at the club and, after difficult months, decided to look for a new start in Sevilla.
In a recent interview with ABC Sevilla, Vitor Roque said he was "very happy" at Betis. It is at this club where he hopes to prolong his stay: "I am very happy here. I spent six or seven months without smiling, but that is now over. Now I smile with my family, who are also having a good time here."
Vitor Roque's loan to Betis includes a purchase option of 25 million euros. This figure could increase to 27.5 million if the Seville club decides to exercise it next season.
Vitor has made it clear that he would love to continue at Betis. However, he admits that the decision is not in his hands: "I would like to stay here, but it is not up to me. I have spoken with my parents, and it is a very good life here."
Deco crosses him and coincides with Raphinha
Raphinha, who shared a dressing room with him at Barça, has already accepted that Vitor will not return to the club. Following the striker's statements, the Barça captain understands that his time at Camp Nou is over. Raphinha himself has said on several occasions that he wanted Vitor to be able to adapt and shine, but circumstances didn't allow it. Now, focused on his role in the team, Raphinha is consolidating his position as one of the leaders of the dressing room.
Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, has also acknowledged that the bet on Vitor Roque hasn't yielded the expected results. Barça invested 30 million euros in the transfer of the young Brazilian striker, but it seems that his time at the club will be brief. Deco assumes that it was a mistake and that the best way for all parties is for the player to continue his career far away.
While Vitor Roque is enjoying his new life in Seville, Barça and its fans will have to say farewell to him. He is a transfer who promised a lot, but who failed to find his place in the team.