With a third consecutive Tottenham manager now seemingly overlooking Xavi Simons in the Premier League, doubts are growing over the Dutch midfielder’s long-term future in north London.
During Sunday’s clash at the Stadium of Light, the 22-year-old was only introduced in the 84th minute, despite Spurs chasing the game. Roberto De Zerbi’s decision to exclude him from the starting lineup had already raised concerns.
Signed from RB Leipzig for £52m, Simons had also been left out of Igor Tudor’s squad against Nottingham Forest before the international break. He has now started just 17 league matches this season and hasn’t featured in the starting XI in the last four top-flight games, dropping significantly in the attacking hierarchy.
There has long been a push for heavier investment at Tottenham Hotspur under Daniel Levy, but big-money signings have often failed to deliver. Simons, the club’s fifth-most expensive signing, has managed just four goals and five assists in 39 appearances, with his only league goal coming against Brentford in December.
Above him on the spending list, Mohammed Kudus has struggled with injuries, while Richarlison—though Spurs’ top scorer this season—has only netted 25 league goals across four campaigns. Meanwhile, Tanguy Ndombele failed to justify his £62.8m fee, contributing just 19 goals and assists in 91 games before leaving in 2024.
Simons and record signing Dominic Solanke now appear to be on a similar path, making the upcoming summer under De Zerbi a crucial one for the club’s direction.
Much may depend on whether Spurs avoid relegation, but hope for the future lies in their young talents. Players like Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall are already part of the squad, while loanees Luka Vuskovic and Mikey Moore are also making waves.
Moore, in particular, has impressed during his loan spell at Rangers, playing a key role in their title push. The 18-year-old has delivered standout performances, including a dazzling display against Celtic, where he repeatedly troubled defender Julian Araujo.
His elegant style has drawn comparisons to Paul Gascoigne, with former Spurs striker Jermain Defoe once noting similarities in how he glides past defenders. Like Gascoigne, Moore combines flair with fearlessness—traits that once helped the England legend score 33 goals in 112 games and win the 1991 FA Cup with Spurs.
Though naturally a winger, Moore has also operated centrally, and his versatility could see him challenge Simons for a place in the team. Given De Zerbi’s history of promoting young players—such as Jack Hinshelwood at Brighton & Hove Albion—he may not hesitate to give the teenager a chance.
After falling out of favour under Thomas Frank and Tudor, Simons now faces increasing pressure, with Moore emerging as a strong contender to take his place next season.
Answer: Roberto De Zerbi
