Tottenham Hotspur faces a major setback as Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons suffers a complete ACL tear in his right knee. The 23-year-old’s season is over, and his chances of playing in the 2026 World Cup are gone.
During Tottenham’s narrow 1-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday, Simons collided with defender Hugo Bueno in the 58th minute. He grabbed his knee, attempted to continue, but soon fell and needed a stretcher to leave the field. Scans revealed a full rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. Recovery usually takes 6-9 months.
The club issued a brief update Monday, stating surgery is planned soon, followed by rehab with their medical staff.
Simons shared his devastation on Instagram late Sunday:
“Life can be tough, and today proves it. My season ends suddenly, and I’m struggling to accept it. Heartbroken doesn’t cover it. None of this feels right. I just wanted to battle for my team, but now that’s gone—along with the World Cup dream.”
He ended on a determined note, promising a stronger return through faith and grit during the tough rehab ahead.
Spurs sit 18th in the Premier League, two points from safety with four games remaining against Aston Villa, Leeds United, Chelsea, and Everton. Relegation looms for the first time since 1992.
Simons, signed for £52m from RB Leipzig last summer, adds to a lengthy injury crisis under manager Roberto De Zerbi:
After a rocky start where he was sidelined by coaches Igor Tudor and Thomas Frank, Simons shone under De Zerbi, netting a key goal in the 2-2 draw versus Brighton.
| Key Absences | Position | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Xavi Simons | Midfield | Creative spark lost |
| Cristian Romero | Defense | Leadership void |
| James Maddison | Midfield | Playmaking limited |
| Dominic Solanke | Attack | Goals in doubt |
The World Cup starts June 11, 2026, across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Netherlands face Japan on June 14 in Group F. Coach Ronald Koeman loses a vital creator. The official team account replied: “You’ll return stronger, Xavi.”
Surgery awaits Simons, then a grueling rehab. Tottenham must find replacements in midfield amid their survival fight. For the player, it’s a long road back to form.
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