Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons joined the esteemed La Masia academy at the tender age of seven, showcasing exceptional talent early in his football journey. By the age of 14, Simons was not just a football prodigy but also a social media sensation, amassing over a million followers on Instagram. His impressive skills on the pitch led to a contract with Nike, and he even appeared in advertisements alongside football icons like Neymar Jr. and Ronaldinho. Compilation videos of his extraordinary talents flooded YouTube, capturing the attention of elite clubs such as Chelsea.
Pau Moral, recalling Simons' popularity during a national under-12s tournament, highlighted how the young player commanded attention. Fast forward to today, at 21, Simons has become one of the most sought-after players in Europe.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain (PSG), Simons made a significant impression during a loan spell at RB Leipzig. His versatility on the pitch allows him to play on either wing or behind the striker, making him an attractive prospect for top clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich. In addition to his football skills, Simons is a polyglot, speaking six languages fluently, enhancing his ability to integrate into diverse team environments.
His immediate goal is to make a mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, having represented the national team since the under-15 level. Notably, Simons was named after the former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, and his older brother is named after Faustino Asprilla, indicating a family deeply rooted in football lore.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Simons' family relocated to Alicante when he was three, and it was his father, Regillio, who noticed Xavi's early understanding of the game. Despite offers from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal, his family chose Barcelona, where Simons demonstrated both talent and a strong mentality. According to Pau Moral, Simons possessed a winning attitude and the ability to motivate his peers.
At 16, Simons moved to PSG following a contract disagreement with Barcelona. His mother advised him to learn French for better integration, and he found himself surrounded by iconic players at PSG. Understanding the importance of mental health in football, Simons managed to stay grounded. Although he debuted for PSG at 17, he had limited game-time, prompting a move to PSV in 2022 for regular football. It was at PSV where he truly shone, scoring on his debut and eventually becoming the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and 9 assists.
PSG then exercised their option to buy him back and subsequently loaned him to RB Leipzig, where he continued to make significant strides.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
RB Leipzig manager Marco Rose saw Simons as an ideal fit for the team. His Instagram following has since grown to nearly six million, underscoring his popularity off the pitch. On the international stage, Simons scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has earned 15 caps for the national team. Ronald Koeman regards him as one of the greatest talents to come out of the Netherlands, and Bolo Zenden has praised his skills and attitude.
Virgil van Dijk, a prominent figure in Dutch football, has expressed confidence in Simons' potential and mentality. As Simons himself puts it, "I know what I want to achieve with my football career." Despite facing numerous ups and downs, he remains focused on his goals, sometimes taking moments to relax and not think about football all day. His journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs, continues to inspire many.
Quotes
Pau Moral recalls, "Maybe he is playing now because his hair is long, because he is beautiful... But no, no, this player was different!"
He further reminisces, "I remember the people, 'Xavi, Xavi, photo, photo!'"
Simons himself is resolute, stating, "I know what I want to achieve with my football career."
Reflecting on his journey, he adds, "My path has not been the easiest one. A lot of ups and downs."
"Sometimes I have to just relax, not think all day about football," he acknowledges.
Virgil van Dijk speaks highly of him, "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."
Xavi Simons continues to make waves in European football, embodying both talent and maturity beyond his years. The future indeed looks bright for this young prodigy.