Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
At only seven years old, Xavi Simons began his journey with La Masia, FC Barcelona's famed youth academy. Even at a young age, his talent was nothing short of extraordinary. By the time he was 14, Simons was not just a football prodigy, but also a burgeoning social media sensation. His Instagram following skyrocketed to over a million, a testament to the buzz his skills and personality generated among football fans worldwide.
His meteoric rise continued as he secured a contract with Nike and featured in advertisements alongside football icons like Neymar Jr and Ronaldinho. Compilation videos showcasing his skills flooded YouTube, paving the way for interest from elite clubs including Chelsea. Pau Moral, recalling Simons' popularity during a national under-12s tournament, encapsulated the phenomenon: "I remember the people, 'Xavi, Xavi, photo, photo!'" Today, at 21, Simons is one of Europe's most sought-after players.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently, Simons is contracted with Paris St-Germain (PSG), although his talent also made waves during a loan spell at RB Leipzig. Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich are among the prestigious clubs showing substantial interest in securing his services. Known for his versatility on the field, Simons can effectively play on either wing or in the creative role behind the striker. His linguistic abilities are equally impressive, as he speaks six languages fluently.
Simons' immediate goal is to make a significant impact for the Netherlands national team at Euro 2024. His journey with the national team began at the under-15 level, and he continues to aspire to greater heights. Named after former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, Simons is deeply rooted in football culture. His older brother, named after the Colombian striker Faustino Asprilla, also shares this familial passion for the sport.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
The Simons family relocated to Alicante when he was just three years old. From an early age, his father, Regillio, noted Xavi's remarkable understanding of the game. Multiple offers came in from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal, but Barcelona was their final choice. During his time at La Masia, Simons showcased not only his extraordinary talent but also a commendable mentality. Pau Moral particularly highlighted his winning attitude and ability to motivate his peers.
However, at the age of 16, following a contract disagreement with Barcelona, Simons moved to PSG. His mother advised him to learn French to integrate better into his new environment. Surrounded by iconic players at PSG, Simons quickly understood the significance of mental health in professional football. By the age of 17, he had made his debut for PSG but found his game-time limited, propelling him to seek regular football.
In 2022, he made a move to PSV Eindhoven, where he instantly made an impact by scoring on his debut. He went on to become the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie, with an astounding tally of 19 goals and 9 assists. His performance warranted PSG to exercise their buy-back option, after which he was loaned to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
Under the guidance of manager Marco Rose, Simons proved to be an ideal fit for RB Leipzig. His reputation off the field also grew, nearing six million followers on Instagram. His contributions on the international stage have also been noteworthy; he scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has earned 15 caps for the national team so far.
Many prominent figures in Dutch football have high hopes for Simons. Ronald Koeman considers him one of the greatest talents in Dutch football, while Bolo Zenden praises his skills and attitude. Virgil van Dijk shared his confidence in Simons' potential and mentality, stating, "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."
Simons himself remains focused on his goals, acknowledging the ups and downs he has faced. His journey is a testament to his resilience and commitment to the game, summed up perfectly in his own words: "I know what I want to achieve with my football career."
In the ever-evolving landscape of football, Xavi Simons stands out not just for his on-field prowess but also for his adaptability, cultural fluency, and mental fortitude. As he navigates his career with ambition and purpose, the football world watches eagerly to see where his journey will take him next.