Vitor Roque has put an end to weeks of speculation about his possible departure from Palmeiras. The former Barça striker, who is coming off an outstanding season in Brazil, made it clear during the ESPN Bola de Prata Award gala that he is not contemplating any move in the upcoming transfer window.
The attacker, only 20 years old, had one of the best seasons of his career: 20 goals and 5 assists, a performance that has allowed him to be included in the ideal eleven of the Brasileirao. Even so, and despite growing external interest, “Tigrinho” assured that his immediate future remains at São Paulo, where he has regained confidence and continuity after his stint in Europe.
"It's not the time to leave": Vitor Roque closes ranks around Palmeiras
During his media availability at the awards ceremony, Vitor Roque was direct when asked about his future. The forward wanted to put an end to the rumors linking him to Premier League or Saudi Arabian operations once and for all:
Vitor Roque: "I don't think now is the time to leave. I'm happy at Palmeiras and focused on the club. That's the most important thing for starting in 2026."
The footballer even confirmed having received an **offer from Arabia**, but insisted that he has no intention of leaving the project led by Abel Ferreira. The player's stance is firm: absolute continuity, sporting regularity, and preparation for a 2026 in which he aims to make a competitive leap with guarantees
An outstanding year despite the bitter end in the Libertadores
The Brazilian forward's season has been decisive for the São Paulo club. Vitor Roque has participated in key moments of the championship and has established himself as a complete, explosive, and decisive forward. His emergence has brought him back to the center of media attention after a period in Europe where he could not show his best version
Although the outcome in the Copa Libertadores was painful —with Palmeiras' defeat in the final against Flamengo—, Roque has emerged individually strengthened. His presence in the Brasileirao's best XI is direct recognition of his influence on the team's offensive play.
The Big European Clubs Chasing Vitor Roque Will Have to Wait
In recent months, various European clubs had begun to take positions regarding a possible departure of the forward. From England, with constant mentions of Manchester United, Chelsea, West Ham, or Tottenham, to teams from other leagues looking to strengthen their attack with a young and growing profile.
However, the player himself has shut down the market before it even begins. His words make it clear that his priority is to settle at Palmeiras, complete a full preseason, and face 2026 from a perspective of stability. The "rumor factory," as part of the Brazilian press called it, is thus closed by the footballer's own decision
Sports and personal motivations behind his decision
Vitor Roque's message not only reflects calmness but also a mature analysis of his situation. After his departure from Barça, marked by a limited role and little continuity, the forward has found the ideal context in São Paulo to rebuild his career.
At Palmeiras, he has regained his form, playing time, confidence, and prominence. And this, combined with his youth, makes stability a key factor for his future development. The idea of an immediate leap to Europe—especially to a football as physical as the English game—could hinder a growth that now seems on track.
Can Vitor Roque return to Barça in the future?
Although it is not part of the player's current priorities, it is inevitable that his name will be linked again in the future with European clubs, including Fútbol Club Barcelona. His time with the Blaugrana team ended prematurely, but it is not ruled out that sustained performance could reactivate the interest of top-tier teams
For now, there is no movement in that direction. The player is exclusively focused on his current club and the evolution of his career in Brazilian football