Tottenham fans are eager to see the best of Xavi Simons under Thomas Frank this season
Tottenham managed to end the summer transfer window on a high note by securing the signing of Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig on a long-term deal. The Dutchman had been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea for much of the summer and had even agreed personal terms with the Blues. However, the deal collapsed late in the window for various reasons, allowing the Lilywhites to swoop in and complete the move just before deadline day.
That said, the 22-year-old has yet to fully showcase his true abilities at N17 this season. Simons has endured a slow start to life under Thomas Frank, with the Danish tactician still figuring out how best to integrate him into the side. The attacker initially struggled when deployed on the left flank in the opening matches, where his influence in the final third was limited and his impact minimal.
Recently, however, Frank has opted to use Simons in his natural position as a #10, and the results have been encouraging. His performances against Leeds United and Brighton were clear evidence that he thrives as an attacking midfielder in a role that allows him to express his creativity, vision, and technical quality to their fullest extent.
Xavi Simons will turn out to be good at Tottenham this season
It is not easy for a young player to adapt to the Premier League and hit the ground running immediately. That is something Tottenham fans should remember before growing impatient with Xavi Simons’ early performances this season. The Dutchman has enough talent and potential to justify patience as he continues to settle in and adapt to Thomas Frank’s system.
John Wenham now believes that the Spurs faithful might have wait until January to see the best of Simons at N17. Writing on X, Wenham said,
“Whilst expectations are naturally very high around Xavi Simons most Spurs fans are realistic that some players take a period of time to adjust to the Premier League. Glimpses of Xavi’s obvious talent have been seen but it may be from January onwards we see his best.”
Wenham’s assessment is fair. Simons is still adjusting to the demands of English football following his high-profile summer switch to N17. There have already been flashes of his immense ability, and the 22-year-old has shown on multiple occasions what he is capable of when playing with confidence. However, the Lilywhite Rose owner believes fans may need to wait until January to see him perform at his peak on a consistent basis.
For Simons, the key will be to focus on the basic and continue building rhythm and confidence in his preferred position. Tottenham have a world-class talent on their hands, and it is crucial to utilise him properly. Thomas frank must ensure that the Dutchman continues to operate in a position that best suits his skill set. If that happens, it should only be a matter of time before the young attacker finds his stride and proves exactly why the Lilywhites were so keen to bring him to North London.