Xavi Simons has faced growing scrutiny since his high-profile move to Tottenham this summer, but respected journalist Süleyman Öztürk believes the Dutchman deserves patience rather than criticism.
The 22-year-old attacker arrived in North London for €65 million as a direct replacement for James Maddison, who is sidelined for the season with a knee injury. Yet, with just one assist in his first seven appearances, questions have been raised about his impact under new Spurs manager Thomas Frank.
Tensions rose further at the weekend when Simons wasted a clear chance to set up Cristian Romero in the 2-1 win over Leeds United, opting for a rabona attempt instead of a simple pass. The failed trick infuriated fans and pundits alike, but Öztürk argues that such mistakes are part of the adaptation process.
“Simons isn’t Maddison — he needs time”
Speaking to Voetbal International, Öztürk made the case for patience with the Netherlands international.
“Don’t forget he was signed for a lot of money. We’re talking about the very top of the Premier League. Only a few players excel from their first match. Xavi Simons is still incredibly young, with a new manager and new teammates. At Leipzig, the team was adjusted for him. At Spurs it’s a different reality. They want him to have a Maddison-like role, but he’s not Maddison. Maddison is a playmaker — Simons isn’t.” — Süleyman Öztürk
Öztürk also highlighted how the pace and intensity of English football requires time to adjust. “In the Premier League you have far less time to think. That takes getting used to,” he added.
A role still to be defined
Simons’ arrival came with the expectation he would slot seamlessly into Maddison’s creative role. But his strengths lie elsewhere. At RB Leipzig, the system was altered to suit his style — dynamic, ball-carrying, and instinctive — whereas Tottenham demand structured creativity.
Öztürk believes manager Thomas Frank must find the right balance: “The coach still has to figure out where exactly to use him. He isn’t the type of playmaker Maddison is. The role needs tweaking to maximise his qualities.”
Stats snapshot – Xavi Simons 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Xavi Simons |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 7 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Chances Created | — |
source: sofascore match data – 6 October 2025
The figures underline his slow start, though his energy and versatility have been evident. Spurs see him as a long-term project rather than an instant Maddison clone.
Analyst verdict: patience is key
FootballPlace analyst John William agrees that Simons’ adaptation period is natural:
“Tottenham fans were always going to compare Simons to Maddison, but they are very different players. The rabona moment showed immaturity, but also confidence — he’s willing to take risks. With time, Frank will refine his role. Spurs signed him for what he could become, not just for what he is now.”
Key insights
- Xavi Simons joined Spurs for €65m as Maddison’s replacement.
- The Dutchman has 1 assist in 7 games so far.
- Criticism followed his failed rabona attempt vs Leeds.
- Journalist Süleyman Öztürk insists he needs time to adapt.
- Simons is not a like-for-like playmaker and requires a tailored role.
What’s next for Simons and Tottenham?
With Maddison ruled out for the season, Tottenham’s hopes of creativity rest partly on Simons finding his rhythm. Frank may need to reshape the attacking system to suit the Dutchman’s strengths rather than forcing him into a Maddison mould.
For Simons, patience will be essential. The Premier League is a demanding environment, but with support and a clear tactical plan, his long-term potential could still make him one of Spurs’ most important assets.
👉 Do you think Xavi Simons will come good at Tottenham — or was the €65m fee too much too soon?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *