Roque attended a Brazil national team press conference today and talked about his mental journey of returning to the Brazilian league from Europe.
Roque said: “When I came back from Europe, my mental state was very poor and I had no confidence at all. When I lacked confidence at Palmeiras, head coach Abel Ferreira gave me this trust. I often communicated with him, and getting consistent playing time at the club was crucial – now I’ve been selected for the national team.”
“Abel is extremely important to me. From our first conversation, he has always been willing to help, both on and off the pitch. He gave me the confidence I needed, and now I’ve found my football again. I haven’t had much contact with Ancelotti; the work situation is different, but personally, I believe he is also a very good person.”
Currently, Roque is experiencing a bright spell at Palmeiras. He is one of the standout players in the second half of the year, having played 52 games in total for the club, contributing 20 goals and 5 assists. Aware that he may start receiving offers from January next year, Roque confirmed that returning to European football is his dream.
He said: "When I left Atlético Paranaense, I had a career plan. Barcelona is one of the biggest clubs in the world, and returning to Europe is a dream. I hope to do my job well at Palmeiras, but if God willing, I hope to go back to Europe."
