Hansi Flick "won't count on" young attacker as he establishes the first team

It was only months ago that Barcelona's Vitor Roque was lauded as one of the most exciting young prospects in football. Now, the 19-year-old appears on his way out, with new manager Hansi Flick unimpressed by his recent performances.

Dubbed 'Tigrinho' by his native fans in Brazil, which translates to little tiger in English, Roque exhilarated with his fierce style of play. He demonstrated killer instincts in front of goal last season, gathering 29 goal contributions for Brazilian Serie-A side Athletic Paranaense. The Barcelona board caught wind of Roque's attacking promise and signed the teenager on a six-year deal running through the 2030/31 campaign, but things did not go as planned upon his arrival in Camp Nou.

Previous manager Xavi Hernandez drew much criticism from Barca supporters for his handling of Roque's minutes, and it wasn't as though the manager tried to conceal his doubts about the young Brazilian. Xavi even told the media that the plan was for Roque to stay in Brazil to "keep growing," citing that the option for his transfer in January only presented itself due to injuries to important players like Frenkie De Jong, Gavi, and Balde.

Needless to say, Roque anticipated a fresh start under coach Hansi Flick, with the German offering a new perspective and a different approach. However, Roque's problems have only compounded with Barcelona's new man in charge, with Flick practically eliminating the striker from first-team contention.

Roque has struggled to make an impact during Barcelona's preseason tour, unable to register a goal contribution in his three appearances. To make matters worse, 22-year-old striker Pau Victor has usurped the Brazilian in Barcelona's attacking depth chart, recording three goals and an assist in the same three-match span. Pau Victor's form has delighted the Barcelona coaching staff, and he's firmly established himself as the backup to Robert Lewandowski for the upcoming season.

If Roque's future at Barca was previously murky, it is now abundantly clear — the striker will have to weigh his options elsewhere, as he currently has no place in the Blaugrana squad.

While Barca received a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal for 'Tigrinho,' the attacker is said to be entirely against a move to Saudi Arabia. Be that as it may, Roque isn't short on offers from notable European clubs, with Manchester United and Lazio inquiring about his services in recent weeks.

Vitor Roque's Barcelona stint has been incredibly frustrating for the player, the club, and its supporters, but all parties would probably agree that it's time for a change of scenery. The 19-year-old has shown promise, and he deserves the opportunity to blossom in a healthy and constructive environment.