EddyFor many Spurs supporters, Xavi Simons’ first appearance in a Tottenham shirt—away at the London Stadium versus West Ham—felt like a long-awaited glimpse of something more. Simons, signed from RB Leipzig in the summer, was handed a start by Thomas Frank, and his debut didn’t disappoint.
One of the key moments that has fans talking came right after half-time. Simons delivered a precise, curling corner to the back post which Pape Matar Sarr headed in to open the scoring. For many, this summed up what Spurs paid for: creative delivery, technical quality, composure in big moments.
Fans have praised that assist heavily, pointing out that it’s one thing to have flair, but contributing to a goal is what really silences early skeptics. Many believe that this demonstrates Simons isn’t just a hype signing, but someone who can deliver in tight games and big moments
While the reaction has been broadly positive, there’s also plenty of nuance. Supporters have highlighted a number of strengths:
- Ball control, vision, and crossing. Simons’ touch, his composure on set pieces, and ability to pick out dangerous balls have been repeatedly praised.
- Attitude and work rate. Despite not being fully match-fit (as is usual with new signings integrating), fans note that Simons showed willingness to run, compete for balls, and link up well with teammates like Kudus and Sarr.
On the flip side, some believe there’s room for growth:
- Positioning. Several fans have wondered if Simons is being deployed out wide more than ideal. A common thread is that he might flourish more in a more central attacking midfield role (an “8/10” or “number 10”) rather than strictly as a left-winger
- Match fitness / consistency. They recognise some rustiness — occasional slack moments, not always influencing the game consistently — but many are forgiving, feeling that his quality already shows, and match sharpness will rise with time.
- The manager, Thomas Frank, echoed much of the fan sentiment. He described Simons’ performance as “promising,” praising the assist and the moments of initiative.
Analysts and media outlets also framed his debut as a success: not flawless, but showing exactly why Tottenham spent the money and gambled on the signing. The assist, the composure, and the tactical fit in the 4-3-3 were frequently cited as evidence that Spurs may have found a piece they were missing after James Maddison’s injury.
All told, Tottenham fans seem united in believing that this debut represents a solid foundation. They are excited — perhaps more excited than cautious — but many also accept that the real test lies ahead: in maintaining form, proving fitness, and perhaps being given a role that leverages his strengths. There’s a sense that Simons could become a difference-maker, especially in tight matches or when Spurs need creativity and composure.
The 3-0 victory over West Ham helps too. Clean sheets, dominance, and a convincing win all help mask early imperfections. And Simons’ involvement in the opening goal ensures he begins his Spurs journey with a positive memory embedded in supporters’ minds.
Eddy
admin
lukman