The Brazilian national team has unveiled its roster for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Bolivia and Peru.
But the exclusion of Vitor Roque, a standout talent from South America who has been performing exceptionally well in 2023, has raised eyebrows. The behind-the-scenes information belongs to Sport, Barcelona newspaper.
The decision made by coach Fernando Diniz to leave out Roque in favor of Richarlison and Matheus Cunha has left many baffled. The two forwards have managed to score just about three goals this year.
Lista anunciada! ✍️🇧🇷
O treinador Fernando Diniz divulgou os 23 nomes que integrarão o elenco da Seleção Brasileira Masculina nas duas primeiras rodadas das Eliminatórias da Copa do Mundo 2026.
O primeiro jogo será contra a Bolívia e está marcado para o dia 8 de setembro, no… pic.twitter.com/j46QSt8Med
— CBF Futebol (@CBF_Futebol) August 18, 2023
In contrast, Roque has found the net 18 times while playing for Athletico Paranaense and six times during Sudamericano Sub-20. Furthermore, he has been instrumental with eight assists, indicating his impressive growth.
FC Barcelona had anticipated that Vitor Roque would secure a spot on Brazil’s roster. Roque’s impressive displays in Brasileirao and Copa Libertadores had led many to expect his selection. Donning the Seleção jersey would provide him with valuable experience and maturity before his potential move to Barcelona.
Both Deco de Souza, Barcelona’s newly appointed sporting director, and the entire sports department find it perplexing that they can’t grasp the footballing rationale behind the coach of the Brazilian Confederation of Football’s (CBF) decision.
Presently, Brazil lacks a more effective center forward than Roque. His inclusion could have formed an exciting attacking trio alongside Vinicius Júnior and Rodrygo Goes.
It remains to be seen whether Roque will receive a call-up for the matches scheduled against Venezuela, Uruguay, Colombia, and Argentina in the months of October and November.
His remarkable growth trajectory suggests that these upcoming commitments would provide him with invaluable experience to become a more well-rounded player on the international stage before a potential move to Barcelona.
