Vitor Roque set to sport Lionel Messi’s former shirt number at Barcelona

Vitor Roque will wear an iconic Lionel Messi shirt number, at least for the remainder of this season.

Vitor Roque set to sport Lionel Messi’s former shirt number at Barcelona

Vitor Roque signed for FCB in January 2024 (Via X/@FCBarcelona)

FC Barcelona have unveiled their latest big-name signing in Vitor Roque. The Blaugrana beat the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal to his signing. Amidst news of his presentation set to happen on Wednesday the 3rd, the player’s choice of number has also struck a chord with fans. The 18-year-old Brazilian has been assigned Lionel Messi‘s iconic jersey number, before his claim as an all-timer.

As per a post made by the official social media accounts of FC Barcelona, Roque will don the #19 at the club. Even though it was decided earlier that Roque would not join the club until July 2024, his arrival was fast-tracked as the club identified his immediate need in the squad. As of now, Roque has met his teammates, been through several training sessions and is all ready for his presentation to the fans.

YouTube video

The player will wear the #19, at least for the remainder of the season. The player used to wear the #9 at Club Athletico Paranaense. However, the number is occupied by Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, hence the new number.

FS Video

Even though Roque is not yet registered in La Liga, Gavi’s long-term injury is believed to have opened up space in wage bill to accommodate his signing.

From Vitor Roque to Lewandowski – Xavi set to ‘shake up’ squad against Las Palmas

FC Barcelona take to the pitch for the first time in 2024 against UD Las Palmas in La Liga. The defending champions find themselves in 4th position and 7 points off the top spot. Xavi and his men have a daunting task at hand if they are to overcome the gap between Real Madrid and Girona and defend their La Liga title. As per reports, Xavi is set to implement important changes in his squad.

Joao Felix, Xavi Hernandez and Vitor Roque
Joao Felix, Xavi Hernandez and Vitor Roque (Via X/@FCBarcelona)

To start with, João Felix is in pole position to be dropped from the squad. He was ‘poor’ to say the least in an unconvincing 3-2 win against Almeria. Instead of Felix, Ferran Torres may be handed a much-needed start after impressive perfomances off the bench. He is likely to start the game alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Frenkie de Jong and Ilkay Gundogan will most probably retain their spots as Sergi Roberto will continue after his performance against Almeria.

Up front, Vitor Roque may make his debut in front of the away fans in the iconic #19 shirt. However, he is yet to be registered with the club in La Liga, though the club are seeking to register him ahead of the fixture. Las Palmas are currently 10th in La Liga and have won three of their last 5 games. Barcelona, on the other hand, have won just one of their last 5.

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