Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons joined the famed La Masia academy at the tender age of seven, and it soon became evident that he was something special. Even as a child, Simons showcased remarkable talent, drawing attention with his skillful play and natural footballing instincts. By the time he was 14, he was not only a prodigious football talent but also a social media sensation, amassing more than a million Instagram followers.
This burgeoning fame brought with it lucrative opportunities. Simons secured a contract with global sportswear giant Nike and appeared in advertisements alongside football luminaries such as Neymar Jr and Ronaldinho. His dazzling skills were immortalized in compilation videos that flooded YouTube, capturing the attention of elite clubs including Chelsea.
Pau Moral, recalling a memorable national under-12s tournament, noted that Simons' presence alone was enough to create a buzz. And now, at 21, Xavi Simons is one of the most sought-after players in Europe, fulfilling the promise he showed as a youngster.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain, Simons has demonstrated his versatility during a loan spell at RB Leipzig, where he made a significant impression. Clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich have shown interest in him, underscoring his rising value on the international stage.
Simons' ability to play on either wing or as an attacking midfielder behind the striker makes him a tactical asset for any manager. Remarkably, he speaks six languages fluently—a skill that undoubtedly aids his adaptability in different European leagues. As he looks ahead, his immediate goal is to make a mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, continuing a journey that began at the under-15 level for the national team.
Adding a unique dimension to his story, Simons was named after the legendary Barcelona midfielder Xavi, while his older brother carries the name of another football great, Faustino Asprilla.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Simons' football journey began in earnest when his family relocated to Alicante when he was just three years old. His father, Regillio, recalls that Xavi had an extraordinary understanding of the game from a very young age. Offers from Spanish clubs such as Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal soon poured in, but it was Barcelona's La Masia that became their choice.
At La Masia, Simons not only demonstrated his talent but also an impressive mentality. Pau Moral highlighted his winning attitude and his ability to motivate his peers. Despite flourishing at the academy, a contract disagreement with Barcelona at the age of 16 led Simons to make a bold move to Paris St-Germain. Guided by his mother's advice, he immersed himself in learning French to ease his transition.
Surrounded by iconic players at PSG, Simons quickly understood the importance of mental health in football. His debut for PSG came at the age of 17, but limited game-time saw him move to PSV in 2022 in search of regular football. This move proved fruitful, as he scored on his debut and finished the season as the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie, with an impressive tally of 19 goals and 9 assists. His stellar performance prompted PSG to exercise their buy-back option and subsequently loan him to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
RB Leipzig manager Marco Rose viewed Simons as a perfect fit for his squad. By now, Simons' Instagram following had soared to nearly six million, reflecting not just his on-field exploits but also his growing influence in the football world. His time at RB Leipzig has only further cemented his status as a burgeoning star.
On the international stage, Simons scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has earned 15 caps, scoring once for the national team. Dutch national team coach Ronald Koeman considers him one of the greatest talents to emerge from the Netherlands in recent years. This sentiment is echoed by Bolo Zenden, who praises Simons for his skills and attitude, as well as by Virgil van Dijk, who is confident in Simons' potential and mentality.
Quotes
"Maybe he is playing now because his hair is long, because he is beautiful... But no, no, this player was different!" - Pau Moral
"I remember the people, 'Xavi, Xavi, photo, photo!'" - Pau Moral
"I know what I want to achieve with my football career." - Xavi Simons
"My path has not been the easiest one. A lot of ups and downs." - Xavi Simons
"Sometimes I have to just relax, not think all day about football." - Xavi Simons
"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." - Virgil van Dijk