Future Barcelona striker Vitor Roque ruptures the ligaments in his ankle

It's not good news for Vitor Roque, Barcelona, and Athletico Paranaense coming out of Curitiba. According to SPORT's information, following the initial tests carried out on the player early Friday morning, everything points to 'Tigrinho' being sidelined for a minimum of eight weeks due to the severe blow he received on his right ankle on Thursday.

Although there is no official diagnosis from the 'Furacao' medical staff yet, according to Globo Esporte, it appears he may have ruptured two ligaments in his right ankle. The player visited Athletico Paranaense's training ground, CT do Cajú, Friday morning, where they will later confirm whether the young Brazilian talent needs surgery or not. If surgery is required, the recovery period could be extended by another month.

Barcelona's future No.9 sustained this injury Thursday night during the Athletico Paranaense vs. Internacional (2-1) match, corresponding to the 24th round of the 2023 Brasileirao. In the ninth minute of the game, he was fouled by Colombian defender Nico Hernández in a violent action that only earned the perpetrator a yellow card.

The absence is a big blow for 'Tigrinho,' who was in fantastic form and competing for the top scorer title in Brasileirao. With his 11 goals, he is just two behind Tiquinho Soares of Botafogo.

It is now certain that he won't be playing for Athletico Paranaense for the remainder of the season. When he gets the medical clearance, it will likely coincide with the end of the season in Brazil, and, of course, the No.9 won't rush his return.

Therefore, last night's match might have been his last one wearing the 'Furacao' jersey. If Barcelona manage to secure the necessary margin in the Financial Fair Play in January, the Brazilian forward will arrive in the Catalan city to start working under the guidance of Xavi Hernandez, a coach who has full confidence in his potential