Tottenham playmaker Xavi Simons has struggled with the pace and physicality of the Premier League.
Tottenham Hotspur have hired Roberto De Zerbi to save them from the utter embarrassment of relegation.
Roberto De Zerbi is known for his possession-based, attacking style of football and has stayed true to his footballing principles throughout his managerial career. The Italian tactician’s quality is clear, but his system relies on smart, technical and creative talents more than one-dimensional players. A manager with fresh ideas and tactics allows the players to impress and cement their spots in the starting XI.
Xavi Simons has had an underwhelming first season in N17 thus far. The playmaker moved to Spurs from RB Leipzig in a big-money deal last summer (£51m) amid a lot of fanfare and expectations. However, he has failed to live up to his price and expectations, rotating in and out of the starting XI under two coaches while registering only nine goal contributions in 38 appearances in all competitions. He has faced a lot of criticism from the fans and pundits, as well as the Dutch media.
Sky Sports reporter makes big Xavi Simons claim following Roberto De Zerbi’s appointment
Clearly, Tottenham fans wanted a lot more than what Xavi Simons has delivered. In fact, the 22-year-old must be disappointed with how his debut season in the Premier League has gone, but he’s got seven games to end it on a high. Having shown glimpses of promise, the Dutchman will be raring to go on a consistent run under the new boss.
Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge has backed Simons to make an impact under De Zerbi. He suggests that the playmaker is set to play a ‘huge role’ in the final seven games, despite finding things difficult under former interim boss Igor Tudor.
With James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski both not playing a single minute this season due to long-term injuries, Tottenham have struggled for creativity and flair. Simons was brought in from RB Leipzig to address that issue, and under a head coach who plays an attacking brand of football, fans could finally see the Dutchman flourish.
De Zerbi may decide to use Simons purely as a No.10 to extract his best, rather than shoving him on the left to accommodate another central midfielder. Getting the 22-year-old playing to his best in the final seven games could be crucial for De Zerbi in their battle to stay in the Premier League, as he’s a player more than capable of supplying assists and goals in equal measure.