Sousa’s rejuvenated after reuniting with Wynalda

After playing for him previously in Atlanta, Ferrety Sousa is excited to be back with Eric Wynalda.

In an athlete’s career, there is typically a manager/coach that they mesh especially well with. Ferrety Sousa was one of 12 new players announced for Las Vegas Lights FC earlier this month, and like some of his new teammates, the right-back has a positive experience playing for first-year Lights manager Eric Wynalda.

“Eric was a big part of me coming to Vegas,” says Sousa. “He’s a very outgoing guy. He’s a player’s coach, so everyone wants to give their all for him. He’s just a great guy.” Before signing with Las Vegas, the DR Congo native had never been to Sin City, but he likes it so far and says everyone has been very welcoming. Speaking of his native country, he has not been back since moving to the United States. “I’m overdue. My plan is to go back home with my national team, so that’s the goal,” he says.

With the Lights, the 28-year-old Sousa is returning to the USL, where he played with the Wilmington Hammerheads back in 2016 before re-signing with the Atlanta Silverbacks. He missed last year because of an ankle injury, but he’s ready to make a splash in 2019.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kavTneRiAMs

Primarily a right-back but also comfortable playing on the left side, Sousa brings an attacking presence and skills on the ball to the Lights’ defense. “Growing up I was a midfielder, so I was really into Ronaldinho, Robinho, those quick guys on the outside,” Sousa explains. “As my playing level got higher, I moved to right back and I’m still able to do those 1-v-1’s and be explosive down the line.”

Lights supporters should be excited to see Sousa press the action and lock down the right flank this season at Cashman Field. The second-year USL side opens their preseason in less than two weeks when they host Toronto FC in Downtown Las Vegas. Tickets are still available here.

Carson A Merk

Reporting live from Sin City, I have covered both RGVFC and Las Vegas Lights FC since their inceptions. I also write profiles to highlight players from the NCAA to USL to NWSL and everywhere in between.