Vitor Roque’s agent has launched a scathing attack on Xavi and Barcelona over the Brazilian’s lack of playing time and suggested he could consider leaving the club this summer.
The 19-year-old, who arrived from Atletico Paranaense in a deal worth €30 million plus as many potential additions in January, has had a difficult start to life at the Spanish club.
He was limited to just 13 appearances in all competitions, including just two starts and was again an unused substitute in the defeat at Girona on Saturday night.
Barca plan to take Roque on loan next season, with the ideal scenario being for him to get regular minutes at another top Spanish team to help him learn the language and style of football.
Agent Andre Cury, however, insists that he and the player do not want a loan and would prefer to leave permanently if a “solution” cannot be found.
“Everyone thinks Vitor Roque should play more minutes but no one understands why the coach doesn’t let him,” he told RAC1.
“Xavi never spoke to the player. I don’t understand this situation and I don’t think it’s good for any team here. I told the youngster that what he needs to do now is work more than ever and wait for his chance, but I also think there have been enough matches and moments to give him minutes to avoid this situation.
“I spoke with (sporting director) Deco. The kid is under contract here, and in fact we chose Barcelona over other clubs where the offers doubled the player’s salary. I’m sure Vitor Roque will be a great player, but if Barcelona don’t let him, whether it’s the club or the manager because I don’t know who’s fault here, we will look for another way.
“We don’t want a loan. If the club doesn’t want to keep Roque, he will have to be sold. There are a lot of clubs interested in Vitor Roque. If the club doesn’t make room for him, we will look for a solution.”
GO FURTHER
Barcelona’s Vitor Roque, worth €30m, looks set for a loan move. But will they wait for it?