Barcelona €61m signing ready to ‘make a statement’ as he ramps up efforts before pre-season | OneFootball

Despite a poor start to his life in Barcelona and a dismal 2023/24 season, Vitor Roque is determined to prove himself at Barcelona.

While the club grapple with financial difficulties and squad registration issues, Roque remains determined to impress new manager Hansi Flick, failing which could seal his fate at Camp Nou.

Roque began pre-season weeks ago

As reported by Jordi Cardero, Roque has been quietly putting in the work. He opted to shorten his vacation and has spent the last five weeks undergoing intensive training at home in Barcelona.

This dedication comes after battling back from an ankle injury and arriving in January slightly out of shape. Recognizing this pre-season as crucial, Roque has focused on explosive strength training to enhance his signature bursts of pace.

Those close to the young forward highlight his strong mentality and unwavering belief in his ability to become one of the world’s best.

Time for Vitor Roque to step up (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

With a new manager at the helm and competition for playing time heating up, Roque is prepared to ‘make a statement’.

Will this be the season for Vitor Roque?

In the hypothetical situation where Barcelona do retain the services of Vitor Roque for the season ahead, there is a substantial opportunity for the Brazilian to make an impact.

This pre-season offers Roque the opportunity he didn’t have last season – game-time and an opportunity to prove his coach.

With Robert Lewandowski entering the final phase of his career and Barcelona lacking any real alternative, Roque will indeed have the chance to emerge as Barça’s go-to man in the number nine position.

However, Roque’s fate at Camp Nou would depend on a multitude of reasons other than his performances, including the club’s economic situation and whether or not they can register him for the season ahead.

Roque has been linked with a move away from Camp Nou throughout the summer, with Napoli emerging as one of the potential suitors.