The international break typically throws up all kinds of wacky stories and fleeting social media trends. From Barclaysmen to Olivia Dean edits, there's always something to keep us entertained during the doldrums of semi-competitive international football.
And, as you might've noticed, this break is a long one. Merging the September and October windows means we get to enjoy two weekends without Tottenham Hotspur ruining them. Roberto De Zerbi's side will be back in action on Oct. 10 away at Manchester United.
Manchester City's guilty verdict is dominating the mainstream narrative, and in truth, it's hard to give the Lilywhites much consideration in the current climate. The aforementioned story is all-encompassing and so far-reaching. It's one of the most significant moments in Premier League history.
But anyway, the show must go on in some capacity, and fortunately, we've got some interesting Roberto Carlos quotes to get stuck into.
Roberto Carlos is backing Tottenham loanee to thrive at the highest level
You might be wondering what on earth Roberto Carlos has got to say about Tottenham, but there is a distinct link.
The Brazilian great has been talking over the break about our Brazilian left-back, Souza, who's spending the 2026–27 season on loan at Porto after joining the club in January. He was a devopmental signing, but injury woes meant he was thrust into the limelight right away.
Souza made four Premier League appearances, the most promising of which arrived when Igor Tudor stationed him as a wide midfielder down the right in a 4-4-2 at Anfield.
The 20-year-old hasn't exactly done much to convince Spurs supporters that they've got something special on their hands, but Roberto Carlos is seemingly assured of his talent.
"I don't like to make comparisons. He [Souza] came to Porto because he has quality. He's a player who played extremely well at Santos; it was a great signing," said the 53-year-old, 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."
Souza is yet to make an appearance for Porto, but injuries may see the young Brazilian get his chance after the international break. Francesco Farioli's Primeira Liga holders have made the perfect start to their title defense, winning their opening seven league games.
Should the opportunities arise, this could end up being a good loan for the young left-back, who, as Roberto Carlos pointed out, offered plenty of promise back home at Santos. It's going to take time for the kid to adjust and adapt, but Porto, who are competing in this year's Champions League, should give the 20-year-old plenty of exposure to the highest level.
He just needs to play!
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