Player Background: Xavi Simons' Early Years
Xavi Simons joined La Masia, Barcelona's famed football academy, at the tender age of seven. From the beginning, Simons showcased an exceptional talent that set him apart from his peers. By age 14, he had become a football prodigy and a social media sensation, amassing over a million followers on Instagram. His burgeoning career saw him secure a contract with Nike and appear in advertisements alongside football legends like Neymar Jr and Ronaldinho. Compilation videos of his skills flooded YouTube, drawing interest from elite clubs such as Chelsea.
Pau Moral, recalling Simons' popularity during a national under-12s tournament, noted the magnetic draw the young talent had on fans. As of age 21, Simons has grown into one of the most sought-after football players in Europe.
Arising Versatility and Linguistic Prowess
Currently under contract with Paris St-Germain, Simons made a significant impression during a loan spell at RB Leipzig. His versatility on the field is notable, as he can comfortably play on either wing or behind the striker. This adaptability has attracted interest from top clubs like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich.
Beyond his footballing skills, Simons is also a polyglot, fluent in six languages. His immediate goal is to make a mark for the Netherlands at Euro 2024, having represented the national team since the under-15 level. Interestingly, he was named after former Barcelona midfielder Xavi, while his older brother carries the name of 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 Xavi's early understanding of the game, which quickly attracted offers from clubs like Elche, Cadiz, and Villarreal. Ultimately, Barcelona was the club his family chose for his development.
At La Masia, Simons demonstrated not only his talent but also an impressive mentality. Pau Moral highlighted his winning attitude and his ability to motivate his peers. However, at the age of 16, Simons moved to PSG after a contract disagreement with Barcelona. His mother advised him to learn French to better integrate into the new environment.
Surrounded by iconic players at PSG, Simons understood the importance of mental health in football. He made his debut for PSG at 17 but had limited game-time, prompting a move to PSV in 2022 for regular football. Simons scored on his debut for PSV and ended the season as the joint-top scorer in the Eredivisie with 19 goals and 9 assists. PSG then exercised their option to bring him back and immediately loaned him to RB Leipzig.
Impact at RB Leipzig and International Ambitions
Under the guidance of Marco Rose, Simons fit seamlessly into the RB Leipzig setup. His Instagram following has now neared six million, reflecting his rising profile. Simons' international career has also taken strides forward, scoring his first goal for the Netherlands against Iceland. In 15 caps for the national team, he has netted one goal.
Ronald Koeman, the Dutch national team coach, views him as one of the greatest talents to come out of the Netherlands. Bolo Zenden has praised Simons for his skills and attitude, while Virgil van Dijk has expressed confidence in his potential and mentality. "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," shared van Dijk.
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 through the various echelons of football showcases not only his innate talent but also his determination and maturity. As he continues to develop, both on and off the pitch, the football world watches eagerly to see how far this prodigious talent will go.