Czech midfielder Tomáš Souček spent four months avoiding public comment after a difficult World Cup campaign in America and a serious ankle injury, returning to the subject in an interview with Seznam Zprávy and MF DNES published in October 2026. The 31-year-old player tore ligaments in his ankle during the tournament and subsequently suffered relegation from the Premier League with West Ham United, yet has signed a contract extension keeping him at the London club until the summer of 2028.
Tomáš Souček Breaks Silence on World Cup Disappointment and Ankle Injury
The Czech national team endured a turbulent World Cup in North America, exiting amid what Souček described to Seznam Zprávy as a wave of justified negative public reaction. Souček revealed that he contemplated international retirement after spending a decade representing his country, weighed down by a negative atmosphere and doubts about the direction of the team under the previous coaching setup.
During the tournament’s closing match against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, Souček sustained severe damage to his left ankle while attempting to block a clearance. Medical scans revealed torn external and internal ligaments, leaving doctors debating whether immediate surgery was required.
Tomas Soucek has committed his future to West Ham. The midfielder has signed a contract with with the club until 2028.The Czech star will be 33 by the time the deal expires. pic.twitter.com/xbhxAO9D8b
Contract Extension at West Ham United and Championship Realities
Following his rehabilitation, Souček returned to competitive action not in the Premier League, but in the grueling second-tier Championship following West Ham’s relegation. Despite interest from several European clubs during the summer transfer window, the midfielder committed his future to the London club by signing a deal through June 2028. West Ham offered the new contract while he was still sidelined with his injury, a gesture of loyalty that influenced his decision to stay.
Souček made an immediate impact upon his return, scoring three goals in his first four appearances, including a brace against Lincoln City. He continues to perform his trademark “helicopter” goal celebration, which he previously noted in his autobiography as a personal symbol of resilience against insomnia and depression. Off the pitch, he also faced hostility from rival supporters, including an incident before the Millwall derby where an opposing fan shouted threats from a car—a confrontation he chose not to report to police.
Revitalized Czech National Team Under Santi Denia
The national team’s outlook shifted significantly following the appointment of manager Santi Denia. When asked about the national team’s first gathering under the new coach, Denia, Tomáš Souček explained that he chose not to speak about the national team then so as not to disrupt anything, noting his belief that the players will recognize the coach and that mutual respect is reciprocal.
Tomáš Souček discusses his contract and book release
When does Tomáš Souček’s current contract with West Ham United expire?
His contract runs until the summer of 2028, at which point he will be 33 years old.
Which media outlets conducted the interview addressing his career decisions?
The extensive interview was conducted jointly by Seznam Zprávy and MF DNES during a West Ham team photoshoot at the London Stadium.
What is the status of the English translation of his autobiography?
An English-language edition of his book, titled Suk, is scheduled for release in November in the West Ham fanshop, featuring an updated final chapter covering the relegation season, his injury, and the World Cup.