Football often harbors a mystical side, where numerical patterns and combinations are believed to hold significance in predicting success or failure. Within the realm of Barcelona, a fascinating pattern has emerged, as astute fans have noticed a trend in which great Brazilian footballers have joined the club in years ending in ‘3’ over the past four decades. Following Romario da Souza in 1993, Ronaldinho Gaucho in 2003, and Neymar Junior in 2013, the recent agreement to sign 18-year-old Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense in 2023 is seen as a positive omen for the young striker’s future impact at Barcelona.
The ‘Brazilian Sequence of 3’ has captivated the imaginations of Barcelona supporters who believe in the significance of this recurring phenomenon. Romario da Souza Faria, fondly known as Romario, joined Barcelona in the summer of 1993 after a successful stint at PSV Eindhoven. Despite his relatively brief tenure, Romario left an indelible mark on the club. He famously promised to score “30 goals” in the league and delivered on his word, including a crucial strike against Sevilla in his thirties, securing Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team their fourth consecutive league title. However, Romario’s time at Barcelona was cut short, and he eventually returned to Brazil to play for Flamengo.
In 2003, another Brazilian superstar arrived at Barcelona, reigniting the club’s fortunes. Ronaldinho Gaúcho, hailing from Porto Alegre, became the catalyst for Barcelona’s return to success after a five-year trophy drought. His signing, orchestrated by the newly appointed board led by Joan Laporta and executive sports vice president Sandro Rosell, invigorated the club. Ronaldinho, who had previously played for PSG, triggered what became known as the “virtuous circle,” leading Barcelona to win two league titles, a Champions League trophy, and enchanting fans with his mesmerizing skills. In 2008, Ronaldinho departed for Milan, marking the beginning of the “Leo Messi era,” during which he acted as a mentor to the budding Argentine star.
Neymar Junior, one of Brazil’s brightest talents, arrived at Barcelona in 2013, continuing the trend of notable Brazilian signings in years ending in ‘3.’ Contrary to initial doubts, Neymar quickly formed a formidable partnership with Lionel Messi, becoming part of one of the greatest forward lines in football history, especially after the arrival of Luis Suárez in 2014. Their collective brilliance contributed to Barcelona’s historic treble-winning season in 2015. However, Neymar’s departure in 2017, lured by Paris Saint-Germain’s record-breaking transfer fee, prevented him from achieving his full potential at Barcelona and realizing his aspirations for the Ballon d’Or.
Now, in 2023, Vitor Roque follows in the footsteps of his Brazilian predecessors, carrying the hopes of Barcelona supporters. The 18-year-old goalscorer, who recently committed to the club, will need time to make his mark. Barcelona has agreed to a transfer with Athletico Paranaense, involving a fixed fee of 30 million euros and additional variables, including the possibility of winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Vitor Roque has already garnered attention, drawing praise from Brazilian football legend Zico, who confidently states that he is the future center forward of the Brazilian national team. His impressive goal-scoring record of 21 goals and six assists in 39 games across club and Brazilian U-20 team appearances during 2023 fuels optimism for his future at Barcelona.
As Vitor Roque prepares to embark on his Barcelona journey, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing the continuation of the ‘Brazilian Sequence of 3.’ While superstitions and numerical patterns can captivate the imagination, Roque’s success will ultimately depend on his talent, hard work, and the opportunities presented to him. Only time will reveal whether he can leave his mark and carve out a legacy alongside Barcelona’s rich history of Brazilian stars.
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