Xavi Simons’ move to Tottenham Hotspur was billed as one of the headline transfers of the summer. But two months on, the Dutch international’s €65m switch from RB Leipzig is yet to pay off. The 22-year-old has failed to score in his first 12 matches for Spurs, registering just a single assist — and his struggles have now drawn sharp criticism from pundits in his homeland.
Speaking on Vandaag Inside (via Voetbal Zone), veteran analyst Johan Derksen and former winger René van der Gijp both questioned whether Simons has the attributes to cope with the Premier League’s intensity. It’s a debate that’s quickly gaining traction among fans and journalists alike.
Xavi Simons Branded “Too Predictable” by Dutch Analysts
Presenter Wilfred Genee kicked off the discussion by highlighting Simons’ physical issues.
“They’re just pushing him over. He can’t get past them,” Genee said, suggesting the midfielder is being bullied out of games.
Van der Gijp agreed and delivered perhaps the harshest verdict of the night.
“He just runs with the ball too much. Opponents have said: as soon as he starts running with the ball, just run into him. Finished.” — René van der Gijp, *Vandaag Inside*
Derksen also expressed disbelief at recent praise Simons received from Brentford boss Thomas Frank.
“He’s just not good at it. That coach was very pleased with him, but I don’t see it.” — Johan Derksen, *Vandaag Inside*
Their comments echo a growing sense that Simons is struggling to adjust tactically and physically to the demands of the English top flight.
Comparisons With Reijnders Highlight Spurs Star’s Struggles
Derksen drew a telling comparison between Simons and fellow Dutchman Tijjani Reijnders, who left AC Milan for Manchester City last summer and has impressed from the outset.
“Reijnders has adapted quickly. You don’t see that at all with Simons,” Derksen said, contrasting the City midfielder’s smooth transition with Simons’ ongoing issues at Spurs.
It’s an unfavourable benchmark for the former PSV prodigy, who was expected to bring flair and incisiveness to Thomas Frank’s side but has yet to deliver either on a consistent basis.
Numbers That Tell the Story
| Stat (2025/26) | Xavi Simons |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes Played | 810 |
source: Transfermarket Zone – 3 November 2025
The numbers reinforce what fans see on the pitch: Simons has found space but not end product. While he remains one of the most technically gifted young midfielders in Europe, his Premier League adaptation curve is proving steeper than expected.
Our View: Time for Tactical Adjustment
In our view, Simons’ main issue isn’t effort but style. At RB Leipzig and PSV, he thrived in transition-heavy systems with space to accelerate and attack the half-channels. Under Thomas Frank, Tottenham’s slower, possession-based sequences require sharper off-ball movement and quicker decision-making — areas where Simons still looks hesitant. A tactical recalibration, perhaps operating closer to the right flank or as a late-game substitute, might help him regain confidence before the pressure mounts further.
Key Insights
- Xavi Simons yet to score for Spurs after 12 games, with one assist.
- Dutch pundits Johan Derksen and René van der Gijp say he’s “too predictable.”
- Comparison drawn with Tijjani Reijnders, who adapted quickly at Manchester City.
- Analysts believe Simons lacks the physical edge for the Premier League.
- Tottenham face Copenhagen and Manchester United this week — key test ahead.
What’s Next for Tottenham and Simons?
Tottenham face Copenhagen in the Champions League tonight before hosting Manchester United on Saturday, and Frank is expected to keep faith with Simons. The Australian coach values his creativity, but the next few fixtures could be pivotal in determining whether he remains a starter or slips down the pecking order heading into the winter window.
👉 Tottenham fans — should Thomas Frank persist with Xavi Simons or give him a rest to reset his form?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 4 Nov 2025 09:45
Thank god we dodge this. I think we were also close to sign him
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