Xavi Simons
Xavi Simons has embraced the challenge of wearing the iconic number seven shirt at Tottenham Hotspur, a number previously donned by club legend Son Heung-min. The 22-year-old Dutch midfielder showcased his potential in a recent Champions League match against Slavia Prague, where he scored from the penalty spot and played a pivotal role in the team’s 3-0 victory. Son, who recently returned to Tottenham to witness the unveiling of his mural and bid farewell to fans, has left big shoes to fill. Simons is determined to honor Son’s legacy while forging his own path at the north London club.
Xavi Simons said: “I didn’t meet Son personally [before] and only now a little bit. He is a big legend for the club and it’s a real pleasure for me to take this number and build my own legacy, so really happy to meet him. It is really nice to score the goals, but feeling great on the pitch, that is the most important for me and I’m enjoying it and really happy to be in this moment.”
Simons’ performance against Slavia Prague was not the only highlight of the evening. Mohammed Kudus also scored during the match and shared insights into Son’s visit to the dressing room.
Mohammed Kudus said: “He said ‘keep going, it’s a long season, a long journey’ and to focus and keep doing what we are doing. He is a legend here. I wish we played together a bit longer because I only had a few games with him in pre-season, but it’s really good to have him here. He is a big example to all of us here in how to represent the club and do our best for the club. It was a pleasure to have him in the dressing room and talk a little bit with him. I am just sad we didn’t play together, but that’s football. It was nice to see him.”
Another notable moment from the night was the warm reception for Ben Davies, Son’s close friend, who made his season debut. Davies, who has been with Tottenham for 11 years, expressed his emotions about Son’s farewell.
Ben Davies said: “It was really nice to see him. I miss him day-to-day being around the place, but we still stay in touch all the time. It’s great for the club and all the fans to have a good send-off for him. It was nice to win for him. He keeps being the good luck charm for this club. He was very emotional [about his mural] and it meant a lot to him to have his stamp on the area.”
Son Heung-min’s influence at Tottenham Hotspur remains profound, as evidenced by the emotional tributes and the legacy he leaves behind. As Xavi Simons steps into the spotlight, he carries the weight of expectations but also the opportunity to carve out his own legacy. The young midfielder’s promising start suggests he is well on his way to achieving that goal.
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