Roberto De Zerbi
Tottenham Hotspur faces a challenging period as they prepare for their upcoming match against Aston Villa, with several key players sidelined due to injuries. While there is optimism surrounding the availability of some players, the club has been hit with the devastating news of Xavi Simons’ ACL injury, which will keep him out for the next nine months.
Xavi Simons said: “They say life can be cruel and today it feels that way. Honestly, I’m heartbroken. None of it makes sense. All I’ve wanted to do is fight for my team and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me… along with the World Cup. Representing my country this summer…just gone. It’ll take time to find peace with this, but I’ll continue to be the best teammate I can be. I have no doubt that together we’ll win this fight. I’ll walk this path now, guided by faith, with strength, with resilience, with belief, as I count down the days to getting back out there. Be patient with me. TTP. COYS.”
The setback for Simons marks the fourth major knee injury for a Tottenham player in the last year, further compounding the club’s injury crisis. The Dutchman expressed his disappointment and determination to recover, emphasizing his commitment to supporting his teammates during his rehabilitation.
Roberto De Zerbi said: “I want to be positive, Mathys Tel played 45 minutes very well. At the beginning of the first half also Kolo Muani started very well the game and then he lost I don’t know confidence. We have to go every day for lunch with Kolo Muani this week. Every day breakfast, lunch and dinner because he is a top player as potential and he plays the better he feels and (feel) better on the pitch he tried to go one v one, to shoot, to do something more with more energy because he can do. He can do that.”
Randal Kolo Muani, who was withdrawn during the match at Molineux, has also raised concerns, though De Zerbi did not confirm an injury. Despite a disappointing loan spell, Kolo Muani is expected to play a significant role, especially with Dominic Solanke being an injury doubt for the upcoming fixture.
James Maddison, who has been on the bench for recent matches, is anticipated to be part of the matchday squad once again. However, his return to full fitness remains uncertain following a setback in his recovery. Meanwhile, Pape Matar Sarr, Guglielmo Vicario, and Destiny Udogie are among the injured players hoping to make a comeback this weekend.
The injury list continues to grow under De Zerbi’s tenure, with Cristian Romero and Mohammed Kudus also ruled out for the season. Wilson Odobert and Dejan Kulusevski remain sidelined with long-term issues, adding to the challenges faced by Tottenham in maintaining squad depth and performance.
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