What Vini Souza said about his Sheffield United future after "comfortable" Premier League verdict

Vini Souza has addressed his future at Sheffield United beyond this summer, after insisting he felt “comfortable” in the Premier League last season and that he didn’t find it difficult despite the Blades’ collective struggles. The Brazilian was signed as United’s midfield enforcer last summer but despite impressive individual stats in terms of tackles, the Blades conceded more than 100 goals on their way to relegation back to the Championship.

Souza also encountered the wrath of Unitedites with some mid-season comments about being good enough to play for the Brazilian national team, and appearing to pass the buck to his teammates for his omission. Souza is under contract at Bramall Lane until 2027 but is expected to move on this summer after the Blades dropped out of the top-flight, rather than play in the Championship.

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Speaking to Brazilian outlet ge, Souza of last season: “It wasn't very easy (the collective), but I found it very peaceful individually. I felt comfortable in the Premier League. I didn't find it difficult to play. I felt ready to be in the Premier League. It happened very naturally. It seemed like I was ready for the Premier League, even though I had never played. I came from a team that played defensively in La Liga.

“When I arrived at Sheffield and they showed me the game plan, I started to focus on that. The fewer touches I had on the ball, the better. I could get out of pressure with one touch. These were things that I talked to the analysis guys about that I needed to improve, so when I arrived in the Premier League, I was already very focused. I hope that the same thing happens next season.”

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Souza is now in Rio with his family and said of his future ahead of United’s return to pre-season training later this month: “I came back for vacation and I wanted to disconnect completely. I talked to my father and said that I wanted to relax completely for the first week. I don't know anything.

“I don't know what's going to happen. I'm still [at] Sheffield. I have a date to return to Sheffield. I just want to be with my children and enjoy the rest of the vacation because the next season is definitely going to be tough.”