Xavi can't believe it, Barcelona's unexpected problem puts Vitor Roque's signing in jeopardy

During the first half of the 2023/24 season it became clear that Barcelona need signings. They suffered injuries to many important players and coach Xavi Hernandez had trouble finding suitable replacements in the squad. This affected the team's performance and prevented them from achieving the results they had hoped for.

One of the sectors of the field in which they have fewer alternatives is the attack. While there are many wingers, such as Joao Felix, Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, there is only one centre-forward: Robert Lewandowski. Therefore, when the Polish striker suffered a sprained ankle that prevented him from playing for almost a month, the manager had no choice but to improvise with Ferrán Torres in that position, or to bet on a 17-year-old striker like Marc Guiu.

For that reason the Catalan side decided to anticipate the arrival of Vitor Roque. The Brazilian forward had been signed by Los Blaugranas last summer, but there was speculation that he would remain at Athletico Paranaense until next season. However, that plan changed and he finally joined the squad last week to reinforce the team in the first half of 2024.

Barcelona were now able to sign Vitor Roque thanks to Gavi's injury. The Spanish midfielder suffered torn anterior cruciate ligaments in his right knee and will not be able to play until next season, so La Liga rules allow for an exception to the limitations of financial fair-play. However, this is not absolutely free and that can bring problems to the club.

What happened?

According to Jijantes FC, Barcelona are having problems getting La Liga to accept the registration of Vitor Roque. The club's chiefs were confident that the place left by Gavi would be enough for the Brazilian striker to be admitted, but apparently this is not the case. With this scenario, it seems difficult that the player will be available for Thursday's match against Las Palmas.