The international break often brings a wave of unusual stories, viral social-media trends and plenty of distractions from the intensity of domestic football. From Barclaysmen jokes to Olivia Dean edits, there is always something to keep fans entertained while competitive club football takes a back seat.
This particular international break is even longer than usual, with the September and October windows effectively combined. That means supporters get two full weekends without Premier League action, with Tottenham Hotspur not returning to competitive action until October 10, when Roberto De Zerbi’s side travel to face Manchester United.
Much of the football world is currently focused on Manchester City’s guilty verdict, a major story that has dominated the headlines and overshadowed many other developments across the Premier League. Given the scale and significance of the case, it is understandable that Tottenham have received relatively little attention during the break.
However, football news continues to move, and one of the more interesting stories involves Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos and a young Tottenham defender currently on loan in Portugal.
Roberto Carlos Has High Hopes for Tottenham Loanee Souza
Roberto Carlos has been discussing Tottenham’s Brazilian left-back Souza, who is spending the 2026–27 campaign on loan at Porto after joining the Portuguese club in January.
Souza was initially viewed as a developmental signing, but a series of injuries at Tottenham forced the youngster into first-team action sooner than expected. The 20-year-old made four Premier League appearances, with one of his most encouraging displays coming at Anfield.
On that occasion, Igor Tudor deployed Souza as a wide midfielder on the right side of a 4-4-2 formation, giving the youngster an opportunity to showcase his versatility against Liverpool.
Despite showing flashes of potential, Souza has yet to fully convince Tottenham supporters that he can become a long-term star at the club. Roberto Carlos, however, appears to have little doubt about the youngster’s ability.
Speaking during the international break, the Brazilian icon praised Souza’s qualities and explained why he believes the youngster can succeed at the highest level.
“I don’t like to make comparisons. He came to Porto because he has quality. He’s a player who played extremely well at Santos; it was a great signing,” Roberto Carlos said, as reported by O Jogo.
“I’m absolutely certain that he will deliver what is expected of him on the field; he’s a top-level player.”
Porto Move Could Be Crucial for Souza
Souza is still waiting to make his first appearance for Porto, but the situation could change after the international break.
The Portuguese champions have made an impressive start to their title defence, winning each of their opening seven league matches. With injuries potentially creating an opportunity, Souza could soon find himself involved in Francesco Farioli’s plans.
The loan move could prove extremely valuable for the young defender. Porto are competing in the Champions League this season, meaning Souza has the opportunity to gain experience at the highest level of European football.
Roberto Carlos’ comments also highlight the potential the youngster showed during his time at Santos. At just 20 years old, Souza still has plenty of time to develop, improve his decision-making and adapt to the demands of senior football.
The biggest priority now is simple: he needs regular playing time.
If Souza can secure opportunities at Porto and take advantage of them, his season in Portugal could become an important step in his development and potentially strengthen his chances of making a bigger impact at Tottenham in the future.