Despite their financial problems, FC Barcelona splashed a significant amount of cash on the young Brazilian forward Vitor Roque last year. However, after his arrival at the Catalan club in January, things did not really go as planned, as he struggled to get an important place in the Blaugrana squad under Xavi Hernandez.
As a result, he left Barcelona in the last summer transfer window to join another La Liga club, Real Betis. He is having a significantly better life in Seville, as he has had 12 appearances, in which he has scored four goals, two in La Liga and another two in Copa del Rey.
He arrived at Barcelona with a lot of hopes and fanfare and might return to the Catalan club in the future. But for now, he is fully focused on Real Betis, as he himself shared in a recent interview which has been reported by SPORT.
The Brazilian made it clear that he is happy at the Andalusian club, and not too concerned with happenings at Barcelona: “I don’t read much about Barcelona. I’m focused on Betis, I’m happy here, and I don’t think about what they say over there. The information always finds its way to you anyway.”
In a veiled shot at Xavi Hernandez, the striker complained that he did not get the required support at Barcelona to grow and adapt:
“I’m young, but I’ve had tough times in football, though I’ve always taken it as a learning experience. At Barça, I learned a lot from both the good and the bad, but now I’m very happy at Betis. It’s tough to go there after they paid so much for me, and if people don’t help you, it’s even harder.”
The young striker also revealed how the Blaugranes facilitated his move to Real Betis:
“I received both offers at the same time, but I was always closer to Betis because of the sports project and the plan for my family. I wanted to stay in Spain, and in that regard, Barça treated me well by making things easier. I’m focused on Betis and not thinking about anything else. I really hope I can win a title here.”
Barcelona will be hoping Roque can rekindle his career at Real Betis, as they have made a significant investment in him. Even if he is unable to return to Barcelona, his good performances at the Seville club can help him regain his value, which will ultimately help the Catalans look for another club and cut their losses with him.