‘Great striker but…’ – Barcelona legend talks Lewandowski, Roque, Pedri, de Jong

Barcelona boasts an abundance of Brazilian stars who have played for the club, but none quite match the flair and goalscoring instincts of Rivaldo.

The club legend contributed considerably to the Catalans during his time at Barcelona, even winning the Ballon d’Or in 1999.

Now, speaking to SPORT Rivaldo has assessed the current Barcelona team, suggesting some potential exits and taking a look at players who warrant more faith.

On Lewandowski’s future

The Polish talisman is not getting any younger and will enjoy a much higher salary next season, which has given rise to rumors of a potential exit.

Talking about Lewandowski’s future, Rivaldo said, “Lewandowski is a great striker, but he is old and this is an important factor.

“In my period, when you reached the age of 30, the club would start thinking about selling you. Even though he only spent 2 seasons at Barcelona, ​​fans want a stronger team than they were 2 seasons ago.”

Rivaldo deems Frenkie de Jong disposable

Another player facing an uncertain future is Frenkie de Jong, with the Dutchman possessing his fair share of suitors too.

Heading towards the exit door? (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Claiming that de Jong is by no means an essential cog in Xavi’s system, Rivaldo stated that Barcelona could bring in a player of the same caliber or even better.

“If Frenkie de Jong leaves, the club can certainly bring in a player of the same level or even better than him,” the Brazilian asserted.

Faith in Pedri

The Canary Islander has struggled with injuries tremendously over the past couple of years, but his talent continues to be hailed worldwide. When fit and available, Pedri has proven to be a cut above.

Recognizing his talents and that the road for him is still long, Rivaldo stated, “I want Pedri to stay in Barcelona. He still has a lot to offer, he can achieve many things.”

Opening up about the Vitor Roque conundrum

As a fellow countryman of Vitor Roque, Rivaldo is sure to be unhappy with how the youngster’s career is panning out in Catalonia.

Roque’s future at Barcelona is presently under doubt, with an exit being taken for granted, either on loan or a permanent deal.

“Vitor Roque is a young player who has a future, but Barça made a mistake when he brought him in January.

“Barcelona had to deal with him like Real Madrid deals with their talents, signing with them and leaving them in their clubs for a while,” Rivaldo assessed.