Thomas Frank gives honest verdict on ‘shortish’ new-signing who made his debut against Man United

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank has praised teenage left-back Souza after the Brazilian’s unexpected Premier League debut against Manchester United, but warned the 19-year-old is still “shortish” of being fully ready for the rigours of English football.

Souza, signed from Santos for £13 million on a deal running until 2031, was thrust into action at Old Trafford when Destiny Udogie limped off in the 55th minute with Spurs already a goal and a man down. Tasked with shackling in-form winger Amad Diallo, the newcomer kept his brief simple, showing composure on the ball and using his pace to relieve pressure whenever United pressed.

Frank, speaking ahead of Tuesday’s must-win visit of Newcastle United, acknowledged the scale of the moment for the teenager. “He did 40 minutes last time, didn’t he, so I hope he is (ready to play against Newcastle),” the Dane told reporters. “He’s still shortish, but I liked what I saw from him when he came on, nice and positive. He did very well, I’m very happy for him. Coming from Brazil, 19 years old, to Tottenham, to the Premier League, getting his debut in one of the most iconic stadiums in the world. That’s a big thing, so I hope him and his family are proud.”

The cameo offered a rare positive for a side still searching for its first league victory of 2026. With Udogie expected to miss the next few matches, Souza’s introduction could prove timely, particularly if Djed Spence’s return from a minor knock allows Frank to ease the Brazilian into the starting line-up gradually.

Souza’s arrival was one of only two January reinforcements for Spurs, alongside midfielder Conor Gallagher, as the club battled injuries and the sale of Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace. While Gallagher has already established himself in the first XI, Souza was earmarked as a long-term project—until circumstance accelerated his timeline.

Frank, under mounting pressure to halt the winless streak, may now lean on the teenager sooner than planned, hoping the confidence gleaned from Saturday’s Old Trafford outing can translate into points against Newcastle.