Special Moment for Dutch International Xavi Simons Amidst Difficult Period: 'Extra Special'

Simons moved to Rojales, Spain, at the tender age of three, where he first kicked a football. By the time he was ten, he had joined FC Barcelona's youth academy. His impressive 2022-2023 season with PSV later earned him the Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year Award. Part of that accolade includes his own Cruyff Court, for which Simons deliberately chose a location with personal significance. "It means an incredible amount to me to leave something lasting behind in Rojales," Simons stated regarding his choice.

The opening of the pitch provided a ray of light during a period where Simons is unfortunately sidelined. "This is where I grew up and where I was shaped as a child. The community has always supported my family, even during difficult times. This Cruyff Court is my way of giving back. I hope children here always have a safe place to gather, have fun, and create beautiful memories, just as I did."

"I am incredibly proud to have received this Cruyff Court as part of the Johan Cruyff Talent of the Year Award, in recognition of my performances in the Eredivisie. My time at PSV was a special period in my career, where Ruud van Nistelrooij played a significant role in my development. As a proud Dutchman, it's extra special that my name is associated with Johan Cruyff's. I want to thank everyone who made this possible," he explained.

Simons was forced to miss this summer's World Cup. The attacking midfielder sustained a severe knee injury, tearing his cruciate ligament, shortly before the tournament while with Tottenham Hotspur. For national coach Ronald Koeman, this was a significant setback, as Simons would normally have been a guaranteed starter in the squad.

The Dutch international has made a notable impact at major tournaments in recent years. During the 2024 European Championship in Germany, he played a crucial role, scoring the Netherlands' only goal in the semi-final against England, though they ultimately lost the match. Simons was also part of the Dutch squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he made his debut for the national team under then-coach Louis van Gaal.