“Vitor Roque Set for Blaugrana Debut: SPORT Confirms Forward’s Exclusion from Ath. Paranaense’s Final Clash”

Barcelona, December 4, 2023 – In a significant development, SPORT has confirmed that the next official match for Vitor Roque will be donning the FC Barcelona jersey. The Brazilian forward, currently the sole addition to Barcelona’s winter transfer market, will not be part of the Athletico Paranaense squad for the final fixture of Brasileirao 2023 against Cuiabá on Wednesday.

‘Tigrinho’ bids farewell to the ‘Furacao’ as the club decides to preserve the young attacker for the upcoming challenges. With Athletico Paranaense already securing a spot in Copa Sudamericana 2024 and facing an opponent with no stakes in the game, the decision is made to rest key players, including Thiago Heleno and Fernandinho.

Roque, who has played three matches in the last eight days, is spared from unnecessary risks. Having showcased his recovery from an ankle ligament injury against Vasco da Gama, Cruzeiro, and Santos, the decision aligns with the club’s cautious approach.

The emotional farewell at Arena da Baixada on Sunday allowed Roque to receive the affection and tribute from the ‘Furacao’ supporters. With 81 appearances, 28 goals, and 11 assists at just 18 years old, Roque leaves a remarkable legacy in Brazil.

Debut with Barca:

The Barcelona management anticipates Vitor Roque’s registration in the winter transfer window. Director of football, Deco, has reiterated this expectation. If all goes as planned, the Brazilian forward could make his official debut for Barcelona on January 4, as Xavi’s team visits Las Palmas in a league match.

As January unfolds, Barcelona faces a hectic schedule with three competitions: Copa del Rey, where they enter from the Round of 16; Supercopa de España, defending the title against Real Madrid; and La Liga. Roque will travel with the team to Saudi Arabia for the scheduled semifinal against Osasuna on January 11.

While Copa del Rey commitments may arise, Vitor Roque’s anticipated debut in front of the Blaugrana fans at Montjuïc could be postponed until January 28, when Barcelona hosts Villarreal in a league encounter.

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