Barcelona president Laporta sends message to on-loan Vitor Roque | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has on Tuesday forwarded a message of encouragement the way of Vitor Roque.

Frontman Roque, of course, is fresh off sealing a departure from Catalunya’s capital.

After failing to impress new Barca head coach Hansi Flick, the Brazilian, half a season on from his arrival, was informed by the Camp Nou brass that his services were no longer required.

A number of clubs, in turn, expressed an immediate interest in Roque’s signature.

In the end, it was Barcelona’s La Liga rivals Real Betis who beat out the competition, bringing the 19-year-old in on a complex two-year loan, featuring an option to buy, and a buyback option for the Blaugrana.

The powers that be at Barcelona were heavily criticised for their treatment of Roque throughout the saga, with the Brazilian international, once considered one of the standout talents in his home country, now looking a shell of his former self.

Speaking in a press conference on Tuesday, the aforementioned Joan Laporta therefore made use of the opportunity to send some positive vibes the way of Roque.

Drawn on the striker’s summer exit, Barca’s president explained:

“There were four clubs besides Betis that wanted Vitor Roque to go on loan. We think he is a young and very good player and he will show it at Betis.”

Conor Laird | GSFN