Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons showed an early aptitude for football, joining Barcelona's renowned youth academy, La Masia, at the tender age of seven. His exceptional talent was apparent from the start, and by 14, he had already gained the status of a football prodigy and a social media sensation. With over a million Instagram followers, a contract with Nike, and appearances in advertisements alongside stars like Neymar Jr and Ronaldinho, Simons was becoming a household name in football circles. Compilation videos of his skills inundated YouTube, capturing the attention of elite clubs including Chelsea. Pau Moral, who observed Simons during a national under-12s tournament, recalled his immense popularity even at that young age. Now, at age 21, Xavi Simons stands as one of the most sought-after players in Europe.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Under contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Simons left a significant impression during his loan spell at RB Leipzig. His versatile playing style, allowing him to operate effectively on either wing or just behind the striker, caught the eye of top European clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich. A polyglot, Simons speaks six languages fluently, a testament to his ability to connect and integrate wherever he plays. His immediate goal is to leave a mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, continuing a national team journey that began at the under-15 level. Named after the former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, Simons shares a familial penchant for football; his older brother is named after Faustino Asprilla, another notable footballer.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Simons' family relocated to Alicante when he was three years old. His father, Regillio, noticed Xavi’s early understanding of the game, and soon, offers arrived from various Spanish clubs, including Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal. Ultimately, the family chose Barcelona, where Simons flourished. At La Masia, he not only honed his footballing skills but also developed an impressive mentality. Pau Moral noted his winning attitude and ability to inspire his peers. However, at 16, Simons faced a contract disagreement with Barcelona, leading to a move to PSG. His mother advised him to learn French, aiding his quick adaptation. Surrounded by iconic players at PSG, Simons grasped the significance of mental health in high-pressure environments. Despite debuting for PSG at 17, his game time was limited, prompting a move to PSV in 2022 where he sought regular football opportunities. Simons made an immediate impact at PSV, scoring on his debut and ending the season as the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and nine assists. PSG then exercised their option to buy him back and subsequently loaned him to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
RB Leipzig's coach, Marco Rose, considered Simons an ideal fit for the team. As Simons' Instagram following neared six million, his influence both on and off the pitch continued to grow. He scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has one goal in 15 caps for the national team. Dutch football icon Ronald Koeman views Simons as one of the greatest Dutch talents, praising his skills and mentality. Fellow Dutchman Bolo Zenden also lauded his abilities and attitude, while Virgil van Dijk expressed confidence in Simons' potential and mental fortitude.
Quotes
Reflecting on Simons' early promise, Pau Moral stated, "Maybe he is playing now because his hair is long, because he is beautiful... But no, no, this player was different!" He further added, "I remember the people, 'Xavi, Xavi, photo, photo!'".
Xavi Simons himself acknowledges the challenges he's faced, stating, "I know what I want to achieve with my football career. My path has not been the easiest one. A lot of ups and downs." Emphasizing the importance of balance, he added, "Sometimes I have to just relax, not think all day about football."
Virgil van Dijk, a seasoned professional, recognized Simons' potential, saying, "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."
As Xavi Simons continues his journey, the football world watches closely, anticipating the heights this young star is yet to reach.