FC Barcelona has brought Brazilian midfielder Joao Vitor Roraima, 17, to the club's La Masia academy for a trial period. The move follows a recommendation from Barcelona Football Director Deco.
Roraima, an attacking midfielder who plays in the U17 category for Ibrachina FC in Sao Paulo, Brazil, arrived in Barcelona this past weekend. Club technicians plan to evaluate the player's potential during his time at La Masia.
Sources indicate the decision to bring the player for evaluation is a personal bet by Deco, known for his deep understanding of the Brazilian football market. This approach reportedly bypasses the club's standard scouting department process.
Ibrachina, a club founded in 2020 in the eastern part of Sao Paulo, confirmed Roraima's trial in a statement on social media. The club expressed pride that one of its players was invited by Barcelona. The entity views this as evidence of Ibrachina establishing itself among clubs developing football talent in Brazil.
The young midfielder participated in the Copa Sao Paulo de Juniores, commonly known as the Copinha, in January with his team. While his team's progression in the tournament was limited, his individual performance reportedly drew attention.
Roraima has not yet represented Brazil at the youth international level. He is considered to be outside the usual radar of larger clubs in both Brazil and Europe.
Under European Union regulations, FC Barcelona cannot officially sign a player from outside the EU who is under the age of 18. Any potential future agreement would need to wait until Roraima reaches the required age.
The arrival of Roraima is part of Barcelona's continued search for talent from South America. The speculation around the player's potential has led some to consider if he could follow the path of other Brazilian stars like Neymar who have played for the Catalan club.
Barcelona's senior team is currently preparing for its next match.
