Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons joined La Masia, FC Barcelona’s famed training academy, at the tender age of seven. From the outset, he showcased exceptional talent and quickly garnered attention. By the age of 14, Simons was already a football prodigy and a social media sensation, amassing over a million Instagram followers. His burgeoning fame led to a contract with Nike, and he appeared in advertisements alongside football icons like Neymar Jr and Ronaldinho. Compilation videos of his skills flooded YouTube, attracting interest from elite clubs, including Chelsea. Simons' popularity was evident even at a national under-12s tournament, as recalled by Pau Moral. Now, at 21, Simons stands as one of the most sought-after players in Europe.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain (PSG), Simons has made notable impressions during a loan spell at RB Leipzig. His versatility on the pitch—capable of playing on either wing or behind the striker—has caught the eyes of suitors such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich. Adding to his on-field prowess, Simons speaks six languages fluently. His immediate goal is to make a significant mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, having represented the national team since the under-15 level. Interestingly, Simons was named after former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, while his older brother is named after Faustino Asprilla.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Born to a football-savvy family, Simons' family relocated to Alicante when he was just three years old. His father, Regillio, observed Xavi's early understanding of the game and nurtured his talent. Offers from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal came in, but the family chose Barcelona. At La Masia, Simons not only demonstrated immense talent but also displayed an impressive mentality. Pau Moral highlighted his winning attitude and ability to motivate his peers.
At 16, following a contract disagreement with Barcelona, Simons moved to PSG. Encouraged by his mother, he learned French for better integration and found himself surrounded by iconic players. At 17, Simons debuted for PSG but had limited game time, leading him to move to PSV in 2022 in search of regular football. The move proved fruitful; he scored on his debut for PSV and eventually became the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and 9 assists. PSG exercised their option to buy him back, loaning him to RB Leipzig for further development.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
RB Leipzig manager Marco Rose saw Simons as an ideal fit for the team. His Instagram following soared to nearly six million, a testament to his growing influence. On the international stage, Simons scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has one goal in his 15 caps for the national team. Renowned figures like Ronald Koeman and Bolo Zenden have praised his skills and attitude, while Virgil van Dijk expressed confidence 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
Xavi Simons’ journey is a testament to his talent, determination, and adaptability. As he continues to evolve, both club and country will undoubtedly look to him to deliver standout performances. His blend of skill, mental toughness, and multilingual capabilities sets him apart, making him a player to watch for years to come.