Tottenham Hotspur’s expensive pursuit of attacking talent shows no signs of easing — but it might be creating a familiar problem. Two years after splashing out on Richarlison, Spurs could be facing déjà vu with new arrival Xavi Simons.
Signed from RB Leipzig for £51 million this summer, the Dutch attacking midfielder was billed as the next superstar in the making. Spurs beat Chelsea to his signature, with sources close to the club claiming chairman Daniel Levy saw him as a “statement signing.” Yet, eight games in, Simons has registered just one assist and no goals.
It’s early days, but the parallels with Richarlison’s inconsistent Spurs career are hard to ignore. For a club still searching for a true successor to Harry Kane, patience is starting to wear thin among supporters hoping for a genuine talismanic figure in attack.
Life after Kane still uncertain
Tottenham’s failure to replace Kane remains one of their biggest challenges. Dominic Solanke, brought in from Bournemouth in 2024, has been hampered by injuries, while Richarlison’s struggles have continued under new manager Thomas Frank.
The Brazilian started this season as Frank’s first-choice striker, even scoring twice on the opening day against Burnley. But since then, he’s found the net just once in 11 appearances and has recently lost his place in the starting XI. Former England striker Gabby Agbonlahor summed up fan frustrations, saying Richarlison “gives absolutely zero” after short purple patches.
“Richarlison was meant to be the answer after Kane — but he’s been anything but consistent. Simons now carries that same weight of expectation.” — FootballPlace analysis
With Saudi interest rumoured and Everton reportedly monitoring a reunion, Richarlison’s future looks increasingly uncertain beyond 2026.
Spurs’ new version of Richarlison?
That brings the focus back to Simons — a player of extraordinary skill but, so far, minimal end product. The 22-year-old has shown flashes of his dribbling ability and intelligence between the lines, but hasn’t yet found the cutting edge he displayed at PSV Eindhoven, where he dazzled against the likes of Arsenal in Europe.
His physicality has also been questioned, with Premier League defenders quickly exploiting his 5ft 6in frame. However, Simons does have the work rate and defensive awareness Frank demands, suggesting his adaptation may take more time rather than talent.
| Stat (2025/26) | Xavi Simons |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 8 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Chances Created | 10 |
source: Sofascore match data – 20 October 2025
While Simons’ creativity has been evident, the lack of decisive moments mirrors Richarlison’s patchy output — flashes of quality without sustained influence.
Our View: Too soon for panic, but signs are familiar
In our view, labelling Simons a flop would be premature. He’s only been at Spurs for a few months and is still adjusting to a new league and tactical system. Yet, the warning signs are there. His tendency to drift in and out of matches feels eerily similar to Richarlison’s early Tottenham days.
For £51m, fans expected a spark — not another slow burner. If the Dutchman doesn’t start contributing more decisively soon, pressure will mount, especially with James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski returning from injury to compete for his spot.
Analyst Verdict
I think Thomas Frank will back Simons publicly for now, but privately he’ll want more urgency and confidence in the final third. The Premier League is unforgiving for flair players who lack end product, and Simons must find consistency fast.
As FootballPlace analyst John William notes: “Simons has the ability, no question. But Tottenham have been here before — big price, big promise, and a big wait for delivery.”
Key Insights
- Xavi Simons joined Spurs from RB Leipzig for £51m this summer
- The 22-year-old has one assist in eight appearances so far
- Comparisons growing with Richarlison’s inconsistent form
- Thomas Frank expected to push for more attacking output
- Spurs still searching for a reliable post-Kane goalscorer
What’s Next
Tottenham face Everton on 26 October, where Simons could start again as Frank continues to rotate his frontline. A standout performance could silence early critics and reaffirm the club’s faith in his potential.
With Maddison and Kulusevski far from close to returning, however, time is running out for Simons to cement a starting role and avoid the same frustrating narrative that has followed Richarlison.
👉 Can Xavi Simons prove he’s worth the £51m price tag — or is Tottenham repeating old mistakes?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 20 Oct 2025 21:07
This guy almost played for us, if we were supposed to be in for him. He's playing very bad to be honest - not sure what it is - but dont care either.
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