The demands of a club like Barcelona are often great enough to scare most newcomers. Understandably, at a club as big as Barça, the expectations from the players are just as much. However, that same pressure at Barcelona does not translate the same way for every new arrival.
There are those that manage to bring their impact almost instantaneously after arriving. Such players seem to fit naturally into the grand scheme of things within Barcelona. Unfortunately, there are also those who take their time to settle in and make an impact, but it takes much longer than Barça would ideally have wanted.
For this reason, there is certain curiousness about the prospect of Vitor Roque. The latest acquisition for Barcelona, Roque is an exceptional Brazilian forward brought all the way from Athletico Paranaense. However, his adaptation is being given the slow treatment by Xavi Hernandez.
As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, Xavi is currently experimenting with his latest signing. The experimental period will allow Barcelona to understand how to best use Roque’s abilities in the remainder of the season. Thus far, he has already made two appearances for FC Barcelona.
His first appearance came against UD Las Palmas, where he was given free leverage to use the striker’s channel as he pleases. He even came into some very promising positions, but was unfortunate enough not to score. However, the positive signs were definitely there for most to acknowledge and see.
In the latest game, however, Xavi decided to switch things up. Staying true to his word of possibly deploying the Brazilian striker alongside Robert Lewandowski, Xavi utilized both his primary strikers simultaneously. However, Roque had to be shifted to the left wing this time around.
Yet, during the game, there was at least one great chance for Roque to capitalize upon. However, the Barbastro goalkeeper managed to read what the 18-year-old was trying to do and saved his attempt.
Despite the mere few minutes he has received, Roque is gradually settling in. A new continent and a new style of playing football must all be jarring for the young Brazilian. However, as time passes, Barcelona has no doubt that he can be a valuable asset.
