Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons joined La Masia at the tender age of seven and quickly began to showcase exceptional talent. By the age of 14, Simons had already developed into a football prodigy and a social media sensation, amassing over a million Instagram followers. His remarkable skills on the field and charisma off it secured him a lucrative contract with Nike. Simons appeared in advertisements alongside football legends such as Neymar Jr. and Ronaldinho, further cementing his burgeoning reputation. Compilation videos highlighting his extraordinary skills began flooding YouTube, and elite clubs like Chelsea showed keen interest in the young star. Pau Moral fondly recalled Simons' immense popularity during a national under-12s tournament.
Now, at 21, Simons is one of the most sought-after players in Europe, marking a significant milestone in his promising career.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain, Simons has made notable impressions during his loan spell at RB Leipzig. His versatility on the field has attracted the attention of top-tier clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich. Simons possesses the ability to play on either wing or behind the striker, showcasing his tactical adaptability.
Additionally, Simons is a polyglot, speaking six languages fluently. His immediate goal is to make a mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, having represented the national team since the under-15 level. Named after former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, Simons' footballing journey carries a unique narrative, with his older brother named after former Colombian striker Faustino Asprilla.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Simons' family relocated to Alicante when he was three, and his father, Regillio, noted his early understanding of the game. Offers poured in from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal, but ultimately, the family chose Barcelona. At La Masia, Simons demonstrated not only his talent but also an impressive mentality. Pau Moral highlighted his winning attitude and ability to motivate his peers.
At 16, Simons made a critical move to PSG following a contract disagreement with Barcelona. His mother advised him to learn French to better integrate into his new environment. Surrounded by iconic players at PSG, Simons understood the importance of mental health in football. At 17, he debuted for PSG but had limited game time, prompting a move to PSV in 2022 for more regular football. He scored on his debut for PSV and finished the season as the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and 9 assists. PSG exercised their option to buy him back and subsequently loaned him to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
Under the guidance of Marco Rose at RB Leipzig, Simons has flourished. His Instagram following has swelled to nearly six million, reflecting his growing influence both on and off the field. Internationally, he scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has earned a total of 15 caps. Dutch coach Ronald Koeman views Simons as one of the greatest talents to emerge from the Netherlands in recent years. Furthermore, former Dutch international Bolo Zenden has praised Simons for his skills and attitude, while national team captain Virgil van Dijk is confident in Simons' potential and mentality.
Quotes
Pau Moral nostalgically remarked, "Maybe he is playing now because his hair is long, because he is beautiful...But no, no, this player was different!" He added, "I remember the people, 'Xavi, Xavi, photo, photo!'"
Reflecting on his journey, Simons stated, "I know what I want to achieve with my football career." He candidly shared, "My path has not been the easiest one. A lot of ups and downs."
Simons also emphasized the need for balance, saying, "Sometimes I have to just relax, not think all day about football."
Virgil van Dijk’s confidence in Simons shines through his endorsement: "He is a very talented player who has so much to give. He can still be so much better than he is already, but he has a good mentality, so I am not worried that won’t happen. I am confident in him."