roque Returns to Montjuïc Seeking Redemption
Brazilian striker Vitor Roque will face his former club, Barcelona, in a highly anticipated Copa del Rey clash at Montjuïc Stadium on Wednesday. The match marks a significant moment for roque, who is currently on loan to Real Betis from Barcelona.
Roque’s journey with Barcelona began a year ago with a transfer exceeding 30 million euros. Despite limited opportunities under Xavi Hernandez in the latter half of the season, he managed to make his mark, scoring two goals in consecutive matches.
His first goal for Barcelona came in a crucial victory against Osasuna at Montjuïc on January 31, 2024. Just days later, he found the net again during a visit to Alavés, an encounter that also saw him receive his first red card.
Since then, Roque’s scoring drought persisted until his arrival at Betis. He started only twice in his 16 appearances for Barcelona.
Betis secured Roque’s loan with an option to purchase for over 20 million euros. The striker has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with his experience at Barcelona. He faced his former team in December at the Benito villamarín, were he was fouled by Frenkie de Jong, resulting in a penalty.
Now, Roque has the opportunity to silence his critics and prove his worth against his former teammates. It has been a month since his last goal,scored against Villarreal on December 15th. With six goals in 25 appearances for Betis, he aims to add to his tally and solidify his place in the team.
This Copa del Rey encounter holds immense significance for both Roque and Betis. A victory would propel Betis into the next round of the prestigious tournament, a competition they have won three times in their history. For Roque,it’s a chance to showcase his talent,overcome past disappointments,and demonstrate his commitment to his new club.
Redemption at Montjuïc: An interview with Former Barcelona Striker, Luis garcía
The Copa del Rey clash between Real Betis and Barcelona this Wednesday at Montjuïc Stadium is poised to be a spectacle, not least as it sees Brazilian striker Vitor Roque, on loan from Barcelona, facing his former club. I’m joined today by former Barcelona striker and La Liga legend, Luis García, to discuss this intriguing matchup and Roque’s return to the scene of his fleeting success.
Luis,Roque’s time at Barcelona was short-lived,marked by flashes of brilliance but ultimately a lack of consistent playing time. What do you make of his loan move to Betis and his desire to prove himself against his former club?
Luis García: “It’s understandable that Roque wants to make a statement. Any player, especially a young striker like him, wants to play regularly and prove their worth. Barcelona is a club with fierce competition and sometiems opportunities are limited, even for promising kids. Betis offered him a chance to play consistently, gain experience and build confidence. this Copa del Rey tie is a great prospect to show Barcelona what they might be missing out on.”
Indeed, Roque’s two goals for Barcelona both came at Montjuïc, but he hasn’t scored as December 15th. Can he rediscover his scoring touch against a familiar opponent?
Luis García: ”Look, scoring against your former club always adds a little extra motivation. But football is about more than just individual revenge. Betis is a well-organized team, and Roque needs to fit into their system. If he can find his rhythm and the service is good, I wouldn’t be surprised if he found the back of the net.”
You mentioned Barcelona’s fierce competition. Do you think Roque made the right decision leaving the Catalan giants for betis?
Luis García: “This is a tough one. Barcelona is a club that demands immediate results, and patience can be thin. Roque is a talented player, but he needs time to develop. At betis, he’s in a more nurturing surroundings, getting regular minutes, and learning from experienced players. Whether he returns to Barcelona depends on how he performs and the club’s long-term plans. Right now, though, the move seems to benefit both parties.”
There’s a lot riding on this Copa del Rey tie for both teams. Betis, keen to progress in the tournament, and Barcelona looking to bounce back from recent disappointments. How do you see the game unfolding?
Luis García: “It’s going to be an exciting match. Both sides are capable of winning. Betis has been improved under Pellegrini and has a strong attacking unit. Barcelona is still finding its form, but their individual quality can always be risky. I expect a close contest, possibly decided by a single moment of brilliance.”
What advice would you give to Vitor Roque ahead of this crucial game?
Luis García: “Stay focused, be confident in your abilities, and don’t let the emotions of facing your former club overwhelm you. Remember, football is a team sport. Play for your teammates,and most importantly,enjoy the moment.”
We’re sure Rooney will be looking to make his mark.
Do you think he will be a success at Betis, perhaps even returning to Barcelona one day a more mature and complete player?
Let us know what you think in the comments below!
