Vitor Roque has chosen to depart from Barcelona and return to Brazil with Palmeiras, seeking to revive his career and improve his chances for the 2026 World Cup. His initial hesitance was overcome by a lucrative offer and the promise of a significant role within Palmeiras, especially following diminished playing time at Real Betis. His transfer reflects both personal ambitions and a remarkable financial agreement, marking a notable historical moment in South American football.
A recent report by SPORT has shed light on Vitor Roque’s decision to leave Europe and return to Brazil, driven by his ambition to rejuvenate his career and secure a position in the Brazilian squad for the 2026 World Cup. Initially, Roque intended to complete his season with Real Betis before making any significant career decisions. However, discussions with his agent, Andre Cury, led to a lucrative offer from Palmeiras, which caused him to reconsider his position.
Roque was initially reluctant to make a return to the Brasileirao so soon after departing from Athletico Paranaense. Nevertheless, Palmeiras expressed unwavering interest, assuring him that he would play a pivotal role within their competitive framework. Coach Abel Ferreira reached out to Roque on several occasions, emphasizing the importance of his intended contribution to the club’s project.
One of the primary challenges Roque faced was financial. His family voiced concerns regarding the potential loss of income from his lucrative contract with Barcelona, which guaranteed him a net salary of €1.7 million per year. The offer from Palmeiras, which included a five-year contract with an estimated gross salary of €2.5 million per year, ultimately proved attractive enough to outweigh his current arrangement.
Moreover, Roque’s playing time with Real Betis had decreased notably, particularly after the signing of Cucho Hernandez. This downturn in his playing opportunities prompted him to consider the offer from Palmeiras more seriously. The club continued to actively pursue him, aiming for a swift commitment as the opening for a special transfer window approached on June 1, coinciding with the FIFA Club World Cup.
Palmeiras assured Roque that they could provide him with an ideal platform to reignite his career, with both the coaching staff and fans excited to integrate him into their plans. After considerable reflection, Roque ultimately decided to accept the offer from Palmeiras. Despite tense negotiations, an agreement was finalized by Thursday night, and the transfer was officially executed on Friday, marking a significant moment in both his career and South American football as it became the most expensive transfer ever conducted by a South American club.
In conclusion, Vitor Roque’s transition from Barcelona to Palmeiras underscores his desire to revive his career, particularly with an eye towards the 2026 World Cup. His decision was influenced by a promising offer from Palmeiras, a decrease in playing time at Real Betis, and a supportive club environment that emphasized his significance in their plans. The successful negotiations culminated in a historic transfer for South American football.
Original Source: barcauniversal.com
