Vitor Roque starts to rebuild confidence as Palmeiras staff say this is the striker they want for the future | OneFootball

Vitor Roque took a step in rebuilding confidence for Palmeiras, his first open-play goal since the Paulista final as he chases rhythm after injury.

At four minutes of the second half against São Paulo, he finished from Khellven’s pass to make it 2-0. According to Globo.com, the display pleased the coaching staff.

Assistant João Martins, in charge with Abel Ferreira suspended by the STJD, said Roque produced the missing goal and praised his workrate and discipline, adding this is the version they want for the future.

Martins said young players need time and experience, and stressed resilience and hard work when things are not going well. He felt Roque shows those traits and that, with his quality, results could follow.

Roque had gone five matches without scoring, having last netted a penalty on 23 August against Vasco, and was criticised by Abel and benched for two games.

He attempted four shots, joint-most with Flaco López, and won four fouls.

The number nine said confidence is returning gradually and that injuries since early 2026 hindered him, first a left ankle ligament trauma then a syndesmosis issue in the same ankle that required surgery a month later. He thanked the staff and said he will keep working to help Palmeiras.

His uptick comes as the club face attacking absences, with Allan sold to Manchester City without a replacement signed, and Ramón Sosa and Paulinho still recovering. Palmeiras remain in contention for the Brasileirão, Copa do Brasil and Libertadores as the run-in begins.

Source: Globo.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”