Tottenham suffer a double injury blow as Wilson Odobert and Xavi Simons face lengthy lay-offs.
Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a severe double fitness blow as head coach Roberto De Zerbi confirmed extended injury lay-offs for both Wilson Odobert and Dutch playmaker Xavi Simons. Speaking on the physical status of key attacking options, De Zerbi admitted that neither player is expected to feature during the critical stretch running from February through April. The update presents a significant tactical challenge for Spurs as they navigate domestic and European commitments without two dynamic creators.
Addressing the injury status of French winger Wilson Odobert, De Zerbi made it clear that the player faces a long recovery process before returning to first-team action. The Italian head coach outlined a strict timeline for Odobert’s rehabilitation:
“[Wilson] Odobert is injured for a long time. Before February, March, he is not available.”
Odobert’s absence removes an energetic wide threat from Tottenham’s attacking rotation. His ability to stretch opposition defenses and create space in one-on-one situations had been a valuable asset in De Zerbi’s fluid system, making his long-term recovery a notable hurdle for the squad’s depth on the flanks.
Xavi Simons Sidelined Until Spring
In addition to Odobert’s lay-off, De Zerbi revealed that marquee midfielder Xavi Simons is also facing a lengthy rehabilitation timeline. The Dutch international playmaker will miss a central portion of the campaign while medical staff manage his recovery cautiously:
“Xavi Simons… before March, April, he’s not ready.”
Simons’ delayed availability represents a major setback for Tottenham’s central construction. Known for his press resistance, sharp decision-making in the final third, and ability to link midfield transitions into attack, Simons was expected to play a vital role in driving De Zerbi’s possession-based approach.
The combined absence of Odobert and Simons until spring places increased pressure on Tottenham’s remaining attacking talent and recruitment strategy. With two pivotal creators sidelined past the winter period, De Zerbi will rely heavily on recent acquisitions such as Omar Marmoush and Sávio to sustain high offensive output across multiple competitions. Furthermore, these long-term injury updates may influence executive decision-making as Tottenham’s board evaluates squad limits, transfer outgoings, and potential market opportunities to preserve tactical flexibility throughout the grueling midseason schedule.