Xavi Simons is back – and how: After his injury break, the RB Leipzig playmaker shone against Bremen. The 21-year-old returned to the pitch not only in top form, but also with a new mentality.
At first glance everything was as usual. Xavi Simons enjoyed football, the RB Leipzig playmaker dribbled, played clever passes and scored goals for the Bundesliga club. There were two of them 4:2 (2:1) against Werder Bremenwith his first two shots on goal he ensured exuberant celebrations (23rd/35th). There was nothing to indicate that the Dutch international was playing his first game on Sunday after almost three months out due to injury.
Jürgen Klopp marvels at Xavi live
At second glance, for which Xavi Simons opened the window to his inner life a crack, nothing was as before. “There’s a new Xavi here. Everything is new. I’ve changed,” he said after the gala on the pitch, which also amazed the new Red Bull football boss Jürgen Klopp in the stands.
Jürgen Klopp paid a visit to RB Leipzig before his presentation on Tuesday.
Next step in your career?
The 21-year-old is a key player and indispensable for the Saxons. RB could not compensate for his week-long absence due to a ligament injury in his left ankle. In the summer, when his second loan spell from Paris Saint-Germain ends, he is likely to take the next step in a potentially great career at a top European club. The setback caused by the injury, his first serious one, helped him move forward.
Xavi Simons is convinced of this. In rehab in Los Angeles, he had a lot of time to think. “I thought every day about how I could come back even stronger,” said Simons, “I know what I’m doing for football. This is my life. There isn’t a day when I don’t think about it.”
Rose is a fan of Xavi
He no longer has to convince his coach. Marco Rose raves about his young star, who is an example of quality and professionalism. “Xavi is a guy who always wants to take the next step. He looks for potential and development opportunities. That’s what sets him apart,” said Rose and looked forward to the future: “I thought the old Xavi was great – and I’m looking forward to the new one Xavi.”
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