Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons' journey in football began at an extraordinarily young age. At just seven years old, he joined La Masia, the famed Barcelona youth academy known for producing world-class talent. Simons quickly showcased exceptional talent, and by the age of 14, he was not just a football prodigy but also a social media sensation. With his skills and charisma, Simons amassed over a million Instagram followers and secured lucrative deals, including a contract with Nike.
Simons' fame soared as he appeared in advertisements alongside footballing icons like Neymar Jr. and Ronaldinho. His exceptional skills were highlighted in numerous YouTube compilation videos, attracting interest from elite clubs such as Chelsea. Pau Moral, recalling Simons' popularity during a national under-12 tournament, remarked, "I remember the people, 'Xavi, Xavi, photo, photo!'"
By the age of 21, Simons has become one of the most sought-after players in Europe, a testament to his enduring talent and marketability.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain (PSG), Simons made notable impressions during a loan spell at RB Leipzig. His versatility on the field is remarkable; Simons is capable of playing on either wing or behind the striker. This tactical flexibility has attracted interest from top clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich.
Apart from his footballing abilities, Simons is also known for his linguistic skills. He speaks six languages fluently, a testament to his adaptability and intelligence. His immediate goal is to make a significant impact for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, having represented his national team since the under-15 level. Interestingly, Simons is named after the former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, while his older brother is named after the Colombian football legend Faustino Asprilla.
Life at La Masia and Transition to PSG
Simons' family relocated to Alicante when he was just three years old. His father, Regillio, noted early on Xavi's natural understanding of the game. Offers began pouring in from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal, but Barcelona was the ultimate choice for the Simons family. At La Masia, Simons demonstrated exceptional talent and an impressive mentality. Pau Moral highlighted his winning attitude and his ability to motivate his peers, saying, "Maybe he is playing now because his hair is long, because he is beautiful... But no, no, this player was different!"
At 16, Simons made the bold decision to move to PSG following a contract disagreement with Barcelona. His mother advised him to learn French to better integrate into his new environment, and he soon found himself surrounded by iconic players. Despite the challenges, Simons understood the importance of mental health in football. At 17, he debuted for PSG but found limited game time, prompting a move to PSV in 2022 for regular football. Simons made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut and becoming the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and 9 assists. PSG exercised their option to buy him back, subsequently loaning him to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
Marco Rose, RB Leipzig's manager, saw Simons as an ideal fit for the team's tactical setup. By this time, Simons' Instagram following had nearly reached six million, further enhancing his global recognition. On the international stage, he scored his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland and has earned 15 caps for the national team. Dutch national team coach Ronald Koeman views Simons as one of the greatest talents the country has ever produced.
Bolo Zenden and Virgil van Dijk, both prominent figures in Dutch football, have praised Simons for his skills and attitude. Van Dijk is particularly confident in Simons’ potential and mentality, saying, "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."
Quotes
Simons' journey has been marked by significant milestones and challenges, but he remains focused on his goals. As he eloquently puts it, "I know what I want to achieve with my football career." Reflecting on his path, he acknowledges, "My path has not been the easiest one. A lot of ups and downs." To maintain balance, he often reminds himself, "Sometimes I have to just relax, not think all day about football."
From a prodigious talent at La Masia to a versatile and sought-after player in Europe, Xavi Simons' career is a testament to his extraordinary talent and unyielding determination.