Competition is exactly what drives clubs like FC Barcelona forward. The Catalan giants are amongst the elites of European football and this has only been made possible due to the quality and competitive nature of their squads and playing style over the years.
To continue representing the Blaugrana colors in the echelons of European football, progress can never stop. For this reason, the incorporation of hungry new talent is always inevitable. In the coming winter transfer window, a new striker is thus expected at Barcelona.
However, despite the expected arrival of Vitor Roque being a celebrated one, it does raise questions for another. Robert Lewandowski remains the ace of Barcelona, despite his declining form this season.
Having already won the Pichichi in his debut season at the club, he has earned the right to lead the Barça team forward. On the other hand, Vitor Roque himself is a great attacker and goalscorer, a dynamic footballer who could give Barcelona a new edge.
Yet, as SPORT reports, the main concern lies within who plays and who does not. Lewandowski has almost never been accustomed to being rested or utilized as second fiddle to another attacker. Even at Barça thus far, he has been rested very little.
On the other hand, it is understood that 18-year-old Roque is a great admirer of the Pole’s. Lewandowski is a great idol for the Brazilian, and he would be more than eager to learn from him.
SPORT claims that the most natural decision would be to allow Lewandowski to continue as a target man, while Roque’s versatility and mobility can aid him in other positions. Either on the wing or as a secondary striker, Roque has the versatility to do so while Lewandowski does not.
In 2023, Roque had already scored 20 goals in 43 games before his injury. He has now returned, however, and Barcelona are eager to incorporate him as soon as possible. Recently, he even added another goal to his tally post-injury, making it 21 in 44 appearances.
It remains to be seen just how Xavi manages to juggle potentially the two most lethal weapons in his arsenal for the second half of the season. Ultimately, whatever the decision may be, it seems like a very positive headache to have.
