Xavi Simons expressed profound sorrow after being sidelined for the remainder of the season and the upcoming World Cup, delivering a significant blow to Tottenham’s survival aspirations.
The Netherlands playmaker Simons sustained a right knee injury during the 58th minute of Saturday’s 1-0 victory against Wolves, securing Tottenham’s first Premier League win of 2026.
Following a clash with Wolves defender Hugo Bueno, the 23-year-old attempted to shake off the injury but ultimately collapsed in front of Tottenham’s medical staff and was taken off the field on a stretcher.
Concerns over a possible anterior cruciate ligament injury arose, and while Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi noted that Simons felt “better” in the locker room after a long-awaited league victory, it is confirmed that he will face a lengthy recovery period due to a severe knee injury.
In an Instagram update late Sunday night, Simons announced that he wouldn’t be available for Tottenham’s final four league matches or to represent the Netherlands at this summer’s World Cup.
“Life can be cruel, and today it feels that way. My season has abruptly ended, and I’m just trying to come to terms with it,” stated the former Paris Saint-Germain player.
“Honestly, I’m heartbroken. None of this makes sense.”
“All I’ve wanted was to fight for my team, and now that opportunity has been taken away from me, alongside my chance at the World Cup.”
– Roberto De Zerbi forming ‘special connection’ with Xavi Simons
The absence of £52 million ($72.3m) forward Simons is a major setback for Tottenham and De Zerbi, who has already lost captain Cristian Romero and winger Mohammed Kudus to season-ending injuries during his initial month at the club.
Simons had faced a challenging debut season in England, only displaying glimpses of his talent under Thomas Frank before being unexpectedly sidelined by Igor Tudor. However, he seemed poised for a significant role under De Zerbi, particularly following a stunning goal in a 2-2 draw against Brighton.
Unfortunately, Simons will now miss Tottenham’s desperate attempt to overcome a two-point gap to 17th-placed West Ham in order to steer clear of relegation for the first time in 49 years.
Xavi concluded, “It will take some time to find peace with this, but I will strive to be the best teammate I can be. I firmly believe that together we will prevail in this battle.”
“I’ll embark on this journey now, guided by faith, strength, resilience, and belief as I count down the days until I can get back on the field. I ask for your patience during this time.”