This is one of the most unexpected operations of this summer transfer window 2023. Left Paris Saint-Germain a year ago to emancipate himself at PSV, Xavi Simons (20) had made the right choice. Back home, the young striker signed a very fine 2022/2023 season (22 goals, 12 assists in 48 matches). But while PSV thought they would retain him, Simons agreed to return to Paris Saint-Germain.
The capital club activated its €6 million buyout clause, before securing the Batavian until 2027. But when we thought he was back at the Parc des Princes, Simons was immediately loaned to RB Leipzig . A wise choice that will allow the player to become seasoned within an ambitious club. His debut in Germany attests to this (2 goals, 3 assists in 4 matches). But many in Holland are still wondering why the Amsterdam native decided to leave PSV.
Simons aims for the top level
Interviewed by the newspaper ADSimons gave his answer. “Van Nistelrooy is gone and doubts arise. I thought about it carefully with my mother, my brother and my agent and the conclusion was that it was better for me to take a step forward. Van Nistelrooy is the one who brought me to this podium. I have always had confidence in myself. We want to work with someone like that as a young player. But even if he had continued, I don’t know if I would have stayed. » If he swears he made this decision only to evolve in a more ambitious team than PSV, Xavi Simons also explained why he chose not to try his luck at PSG right away.
“There were already discussions with clubs before the match against AZ (the last of last season, note), via my agent. Subsequently, many coaches call you themselves, they explain their project to you and tell you what they think of you. The Leipzig coach wanted me so badly and I immediately liked the club’s project. All the other clubs: I’m grateful to them for taking the time to call me, but Leipzig stood out. The sporty aspect was number one in my choice. I didn’t want to take a big step forward after PSV. It is not wise. I think Leipzig can be an intermediate step. If I play here, something even bigger will come naturally. My ambition is to one day reach the highest level of football. It’s what I dream of. » And so far, his choices have always paid off.
