'Now I am Goku': Ex-Barca B winger announces bizarre name change

"I am grateful to Joan for what I have lived, for all the positive things he left me, but now I am Goku,” former Barcelona B winger Joan Roman wrote on Instagram.

“I only ask for respect, as so many people are showing me. Always on the move, always forward.”

Roman picked his new name from one of the most successful Japanese manga and anime series Dragon Ball. Its lead character is also named Goku.

“I chose this name because I feel I identify with what it represents for me: perseverance, empathy, growth in the face of obstacles, light and positivity,” he added.

Roman made 70 appearances for Barca's B side between 2012 and 2015. The 27-year-old now plays for Polish second division side Miedz Legnica.