Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons joined La Masia, Barcelona's famed youth academy, at the tender age of seven. Even in those early days, he showcased exceptional talent, quickly becoming one of the academy’s standout players. By the time he was 14, Simons was not just a football prodigy; he had also become a social media sensation, amassing over a million Instagram followers. His impressive skills and magnetic personality caught the attention of major brands, leading to a contract with Nike and appearances in advertisements featuring Neymar Jr and Ronaldinho. Compilation videos of his skills flooded YouTube, further amplifying his fame. Elite clubs like Chelsea began showing interest in him, captivated by his potential. Pau Moral recounted Simons' popularity during a national under-12s tournament, a testament to the youngster’s remarkable rise.
At 21, Xavi Simons is now one of the most sought-after players in Europe, having captured the attention of top clubs with his incredible talent and versatility.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain (PSG), Simons made an impressive impact during a loan spell at RB Leipzig. His performances there have piqued the interest of Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich, clubs renowned for their keen eye on emerging talents. Simons' versatility on the field allows him to play on either wing or behind the striker, giving his managers multiple options to utilize his skills effectively.
Apart from his footballing prowess, Simons is also a polyglot, speaking six languages fluently. His immediate goal is to make a significant mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024. Having represented his national team since the under-15 level, Simons is no stranger to international football. Interestingly, he is named after the former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, while his older brother is named after the Colombian forward Faustino Asprilla.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Simons’ family relocated to Alicante when he was three years old. Even at a young age, his father, Regillio, noted Xavi's early understanding of the game. Although offers from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal came in, it was Barcelona's La Masia that his family chose. At La Masia, Simons demonstrated not only talent but also an impressive mentality. Pau Moral highlighted his winning attitude and ability to motivate his peers, qualities that set him apart from others.
However, at 16, due to a contract disagreement with Barcelona, Simons decided to move to PSG. Taking his mother's advice, he learned French to integrate better into his new environment. Surrounded by iconic players at PSG, Simons grasped the importance of mental health in football. Though he debuted for PSG at 17, his game time was limited, prompting a move to PSV in 2022 for more regular football. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut and becoming the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and 9 assists. Recognizing his talent, PSG exercised their option to buy him back before loaning him to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
Marco Rose, the manager of RB Leipzig, saw Simons as an ideal fit for the team, and Simons did not disappoint. His Instagram following has now nearly reached six million, reflecting his growing influence both on and off the field. Simons scored his first goal for the Netherlands in a match against Iceland, and in his 15 caps for the national team, he has continued to mature as a player. Dutch football legend Ronald Koeman views Simons as one of the greatest Dutch talents, and Bolo Zenden has praised his skills and attitude. Even Virgil van Dijk, a stalwart of the Dutch defense, has expressed confidence in Simons' potential and mentality, emphasizing that he has much more to offer in the future.
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