Latest news with #XaviSimons
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Xavi Simons shines as Santos lose friendly against RB Leipzig
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here. 'Longtime buddies', Neymar and Xavi Simons shared several actions in recent days and were the individual highlights of the friendly match between Santos and RB Leipzig this Wednesday (28). Advertisement On the field at the Cícero de Souza Marques Stadium in Bragança Paulista, the Dutchman had the upper hand, shining in the 3-1 victory for the Bundesliga club. Simons scored twice and participated in the play leading to another Leipzig goal, scored by Lois Openda, who celebrated in style. Neymar was a starter and left the field at halftime, after exciting the fans with some individual plays. The only goal for Peixe in the match was scored by Hyan in the second half, when most of the starters had already left the field. Neymar only for 45 minutes Neymar's last match as a starter was on April 16, against Atlético-MG when he got injured. Advertisement He started this Wednesday's friendly and stayed on the field only during the first half. The number 10 of Peixe excited the fans with some individual plays and beautiful passes that put teammates in great finishing positions. He even attempted a shot from before midfield, but the ball was weak and easily saved by the RB Leipzig goalkeeper. Xavi Simons shone The number 10 who stood out the most on the field was on the German side, showcasing talent and also a bit of luck. Xavi Simons opened the scoring for Leipzig just 14 minutes into the game with a shot that deflected off a teammate and caught João Paulo off guard. He also scored the 3-0 goal 18 minutes into the second half, again with a shot that was deflected and took the Santos goalkeeper out of the play. Advertisement The Dutchman also paved the way for the second goal of the match, making a good pass to Antonio Nusa, who assisted Openda in finding the net. Featured photo: Raul Baretta / Santos FC
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Neymar, funk and special braids: Xavi Simons on his ties to Brazil
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here. Xavi Simons doesn't even need to be interviewed to make his admiration for Brazil evident. Advertisement The Dutch player's braids have been given a special design for RB Leipzig's tour in São Paulo, displaying the letters 'BR'. His affection for the country was built over his football career and, before reaching the visual on his head, it passed through his relationship with Neymar and funk music. Xavi also doesn't hide that he is a fan of Santos' number 10, whom he will have the opportunity to face in a friendly match scheduled for this Wednesday (28), in Bragança Paulista. "As I always say when I give interviews, it was he who inspired me when I was young. He was my idol, he is my idol. Playing with him at PSG was a dream come true and obviously now playing with him on Wednesday will be special," he said during a press conference in São Paulo. Advertisement The Dutchman met Neymar when he was still going through the youth categories at Barcelona. Later, the two were teammates at PSG. He saw me when I was a child at Barcelona. We did a commercial together, for me it was a dream. This guy has already won everything and still has the hunger to try to do his best daily Xavi Simons Even before facing Santos, he already had the chance to admire another Brazilian with a stint at PSG. Xavi watched the match between Red Bull Bragantino and Juventude for the Brasileirão from the stadium and left there with a shirt from the forward Nenê, currently at the club from Rio Grande do Sul. He recorded the moment with a photo published on social networks accompanied by a simple and direct caption: "Legend". His identification with Brazilian culture can also be explained by his family background, neighboring Brazilian territory. Advertisement The RB Leipzig player was born in Amsterdam, but has family in Suriname, a former Dutch colony that borders the states of Pará and Amapá, in the north of the country. "I have a similar culture. My family comes from Suriname and it's kind of the live football with a beautiful passion. Our country is also about football. Children dream of playing in big stadiums and being the best in the world," he compared. "The [Brazilian] food is very similar to that of my homeland, Suriname. That's why I love it," he said. But, for funk to reach his playlists, the influence of some Brazilian and Portuguese friends throughout his career as a player was necessary. "I played with many Brazilian and Portuguese players. They introduced me to this music and, since then, I really like it and listen to it daily," he commented. Advertisement On the field, Xavi is another player who was given a chance to grow at Leipzig and met expectations, becoming a protagonist of the team. In the last two editions of the Bundesliga, he was directly involved in 42 of the team's goals, scoring 24 and providing 18 assists. Only Belgian Lois Openda has a better number (52) than him for RB Leipzig in the same period, with the Dutchman playing ten fewer games. The difference in the number of matches mainly came in the season that ended this month. An ankle injury kept Xavi out of action for eight rounds of the German Championship. "I was injured for two months for the first time in my life. It was a difficult time for me and my family. I tried to recover as quickly as possible to help the team, because obviously the situation was not good," he lamented. Advertisement The situation did not end well in the Bundesliga for Leipzig, which finished the championship in seventh, without securing a spot for any European competition. Now recovered from the physical problems, the expectation is that the Dutchman will take the field this Wednesday against Santos, possibly meeting his idol Neymar on the pitch again.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Bundesliga playmaking SENSATION now wants to talk to Liverpool
Bundesliga playmaking SENSATION now wants to talk to Liverpool Liverpool keen on Xavi Simons Signed to a permanent deal by the Red Bulls in January, the Dutch international signed a contract only until 2027 - meaning he will be sold sooner rather than later. The 22-year-old is a versatile performer - capable of lining up across the attacking midfield line although he wouldn't be described as a conventional winger. Advertisement A new report in TEAMtalk claims Simons - who got 10 goals and seven assists for Leipzig despite a difficult campaign - has been put forward by Liverpool staff as an option instead of Wirtz. Moreover, it's claimed that the highly-rated playmaker - who starred with Cody Gakpo at PSV - is keen on a move to Anfield. © IMAGO - Xavi Simons Liverpool Xavi Simons 'enthusiastic' about Liverpool 'The Premier League champions view the youngster as a potential addition to their squad and are focusing on him as an alternative to Florian Wirtz,' the report reads. 'Simons is enthusiastic about a Premier League move and would be keen to talk to interested parties, including Liverpool. Advertisement 'The Dutch youngster has been presented as an option by the Liverpool recruitment team, who believe that he can add creativity and depth to a midfield already boasting Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.' Simons created 51 chances in the Bundesliga this season - according to FOTMOB - and also ranks highly for possessions won in the final third. That off-the-ball work is sure to appeal to Arne Slot.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Sun
Arsenal transfer news LIVE: Benjamin Sesko ‘contact', Gunners targeting ‘next Mbappe', Xavi Simons linked
ARSENAL are looking ahead to a HUGE summer transfer window after another trophyless season. The Gunners have been linked with a move for Leipzig 10 Xavi Simons, with the club reportedly looking to replace Martin Odegaard in the summer. Their striker search has also cropped up the 'next Mbappe,' Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike. Sporting director Andrea Berta has also reportedly been in contact with RB Leipzig over a potential deal for Benjamin Sesko. Elsewhere, Arsenal are targetting Rodrygo, who could be set to leave Real Madrid this summer. 24th May 2025, 00:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Major Arsenal transfer advice Jermaine Pennant suggested Real Madrid ace Rodrygo and Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams may be the "final spark" Arsenal need. Pennant told "[Gabriel] Martinelli's got all the attributes. Great pace, he's direct, he gets into great positions. But he lacks end product. "It's the opposite of [Bukayo] Saka. He gets into great areas but just doesn't do the right thing at the last second. 'If Arsenal can land Rodrygo or Nico Williams, it could be the final spark the team needs." 24th May 2025, 23:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Race for Nkunku Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku is at the centre of a six-way transfer race this summer. The talented Frenchman is pushing for an exit from Chelsea, two years after a £52million switch from RB Leipzig. And SunSport can reveal that London rivals Arsenal are among those lining up a move for Nkunku. The Gunners are desperate to boost their firepower and Mikel Arteta sees the 27-year-old as a good option to add to his squad. But Liverpool, Paris St Germain, Manchester United, West Ham and Atletico Madrid are heavily in the race to secure Nkunku's services. 24th May 2025, 22:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Jorginho to leave early Jorginho could be set for an early exit from his contract at Arsenal. The Italian is in the final months of his deal at the Emirates, with it expiring in June. However, the Gunners are set to release him early so he can join Brazilian side Flamengo. This means that Jorginho would be able to play in the Club World Cup. 24th May 2025, 21:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Arsenal transfer blow Chelsea's Todd Boehly has appeared to rule out Andrey Santos leaving this summer. Arsenal have been eyeing up a move for the 21-year-old, who impressed on loan at Strasbourg this season. Speaking at the Qatar Economic Forum, Boehly said: 'We are laser-focused on the Club World Cup. 'We have some players that are joining us [like] Andrey Santos. 'We are really excited about him and what he can add to the squad.' 24th May 2025, 20:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Gyokeres alternative Benjamin Sesko remains on Arsenal's summer wishlist – but Viktor Gyokeres is their No1 target. That's the claim from Fichajes, who add that Sesko is very much Plan B for Arsenal should they miss out on the Swede. The 21-year-old Slovenian has been outstanding in the Bundesliga this term, with 21 goals and six assists. 24th May 2025, 19:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Arteta on Rodrygo Mikel Arteta was asked about links to Real Madrid's Rodrygo in his pre-match press conference this morning. He said: "If you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market, no? The teams that win always have the best players. "I wouldn't like to name a player, but there is pride because we have brought the club into a position that next season people are saying: 'You have to win a major trophy.' "And that means that everybody believes, and that we are an elite team in this country and in Europe. The biggest statement is that Arsenal is there." 24th May 2025, 18:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Arteta's blunt Partey answer Mikel Arteta gave a blunt answer when asked about Thomas Partey. The midfielder has been linked with a move away from Arsenal this summer. But the Spaniard could have something else in mind. When asked if he wants to keep Partey, Arteta said: "Yeah, I said it many times." 24th May 2025, 17:00 By Aiya Zhussupova 24th May 2025, 16:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Nwaneri's future uncertain Ethan Nwaneri's future at Arsenal remains uncertain despite the club offering the youngster a long-term deal. The 18-year-old has contributed nine goals and two assists in 36 appearances during his breakthrough season. It's reported the club is keen on keeping Nwaneri but the he is "some way from putting pen to paper". With Andrea Berta looking for two forwards this transfer window, Nwaneri is worried he will be pushed down the pecking order. Meanwhile, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are also reportedly interested in the teenager. 24th May 2025, 15:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Jurrien Timber update Mikel Arteta has given an update Jurrien Timber's injury. The Gunners boss said: 'Jurrien had surgery on Tuesday morning on his ankle. 'He's been feeling that discomfort for many, many weeks. He's been navigating through the season with that issue and it needed to be resolved, so he's going to be out for a while.' 24th May 2025, 14:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Arsenal 'need goal threat' Mikel Arteta has admitted that Arsenal need more firepower in the attacking areas after an injury-hit season. The Gunners struggled to keep pace with Liverpool after Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz were injured for notable periods. This led to much frustration from fans when the club refused to sign a striker in the January window. Arteta said: 'What is clear with the amount of injuries we had in the front line is that we need a goal threat, we need the firepower out there, and understanding that the context can change tomorrow. 'We cannot rely just on the numbers we had before. 'We have to add goals, we have to add creativity, we have to add numbers and that will be in different positions.' 24th May 2025, 13:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Gunner bow out Arsenal have reportedly withdrawn from the race to sign Leory Sane. The former Manchester City star was a target for the Gunners ahead of his exit from Bayern Munich. However, Sane will not be heading to the Emirates as Sky Germany have claimed the club have pulled out of the race. 24th May 2025, 12:04 By Aiya Zhussupova Cesc to disrupt Arsenal plans Cesc Fabregas is reportedly eyeing up a move for Arsenal target Yeremay Hernandez. The Deportivo La Coruna winger has caught the eye of Arsenal and Chelsea and has even been scouted by the Prem giants. However, Fabregas has admitted that he is a big fan of the player. He said: 'We are following Yeremay, yes… he's an excellent player.' 24th May 2025, 11:13 By Aiya Zhussupova Trossard exit? Arsenal fans reckon Leandro Trossard's wife has hinted he's on the way out of the Emirates. The Belgium international has one year left on his contract with the north Londoners. Trossard could find himself the odd man out if Arteta snaps up target Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao. And some of the Emirates faithful believe his other half has hinted that he'll be moving on to pastures new due to a number of "emotional" Instagram story updates. Former Brighton ace Trossard has made 55 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring ten goals and providing nine assists. 24th May 2025, 10:00 By Aiya Zhussupova Arsenal eyeing up Real Madrid winger Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Real Madrid winger Rodrygo as they look to bolster their attacking options. It's claimed that the deal for the Brazilian is "difficult", but that the North Londoners are exploring the options to get it done. It has also been reported that talks have BEGUN behind the scenes. Rodrygo has scored six goals in 30 LaLiga appearances this term. 24th May 2025, 09:06 By Aiya Zhussupova Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool in the race for former PSG star Chelsea have reportedly joined Arsenal and Liverpool in the race for Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike. The 22-year-old striker has discovered his scoring boots in Germany, netting 22 goals in all competitions for Frankfurt. His 15 league goals led them to a third place finish and Champions League football. But the Frenchman's form has not gone unnoticed. Arsenal and Liverpool are both interested in snapping him up this summer. Yet RMC Sport claims it could be Chelsea who end up winning the race. It's reckoned Ekitike will fetch anywhere between £67million and £84m – having cost Frankfurt just £14m last year. 24th May 2025, 08:07 By Nyle Smith Swede on the menu Viktor Gyokeres' uncle reckons his nephew will SNUB Manchester United and Arsenal this summer. The Gyokeres family reportedly "made a decision" around the dinner table before celebrating Sporting Lisbon 's successive league triumph. Gyokeres' uncle Chris dropped a major bombshell about his nephew's future on the final day of Liga Portugal. He believes that the sought-after striker will remain at Sporting Lisbon next season. Wearing a Sporting scarf and jersey, he said: 'I'm super happy, this is amazing. "We were here last year, it's the same spirit, the same people, the same atmosphere. Absolutely fantastic! Beyond words! "Yesterday at dinner we decided that he has to stay. "Yes, we think so. We hope so, because look… We love it, it's incredible, the country, the people and Sporting. And the Lions." 24th May 2025, 07:00 By Henry Tomlinson Ace to be sold Arsenal are reportedly willing to sell Reiss Nelson this summer. The winger has been out on loan at Fulham but has struggled for regular game time. Repirts have now claimed that he could be on his way out of the Emirates this summer on a permanent deal. He has previously been linked with moves to West Ham and Brighton. 24th May 2025, 04:00 By Henry Tomlinson Gunning for gold Kai Havertz is leading the way in the race to be Arsenal's top marksman this season. 24th May 2025, 01:00 By Henry Tomlinson Arteta looking forward Mikel Arteta has insisted he is looking forward to the 2025/26 campaign despite the disappointment of another 2nd placed finish. I am excited [for next season] but now I need to rest a little bit, to calm down and to start to make certain decisions in the most efficient way with the right timing to make sure that I can rest,' he said. I have quite a clear picture, but I need a few more things to then have real clarity and analysis and describe the season with the right words, because I know that that's going to be very, very important. You need to reset. In order to do that, there are many parts. You need to rest, then you need to be very convinced and aligned with what you want to do to give yourself the next chance to be where we want to be, and then you need to start to feel that feeling in your tummy that you're willing to come back here on day one, fully motivated and enthusiastic to go again with the group of players and staff that we have. Mikel Arteta By Henry Tomlinson Tuchel explains White snub Ben White is not in Thomas Tuchel's England squad, despite returning to Three Lions contention. On the decision, Tuchel said: 'We had a talk and decided at the moment, not at this moment because he will become a father very soon and the baby is due on the exact date of the camp. 'It is his first child and we thought if he comes back he should come back with a free mind and to focus on football so this would not be the case. 'He has played lately but he could improve 15 or 20 per cent in physical ability so we thought in all circumstances he is not with us.'
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Report: Liverpool Weighing Up £60m ‘More accessible' Wirtz Alternative
Xavi Simons: The £60m Catalyst Liverpool Might Need Simons Steps Into Liverpool's Spotlight As Liverpool look set for a busy summer, it's telling that one of the first marquee names linked to Anfield is Xavi Simons. According to TEAMtalk, the Dutch international is firmly on the club's radar, with sources suggesting that both Liverpool and Simons are open to exploratory talks. Advertisement His profile certainly stands out. Eleven goals and eight assists in 33 games for RB Leipzig underline not just output but consistency. That he has achieved this in the Bundesliga, often playing across various attacking roles, only adds weight to his rising value. Photo: IMAGO With Florian Wirtz seemingly Bayern-bound and priced beyond Liverpool's comfort zone, Simons emerges as a more strategic and cost-effective alternative. His £60m fee feels like a shrewd investment rather than an extravagant gamble, particularly when viewed through the lens of Slot's need to reinvigorate Liverpool's attacking layers. Slot's System and Simons's Skillset Align 'Simons ticks numerous boxes for Arne Slot's side,' TEAMtalk reported, and it's easy to see why. Slot's Feyenoord sides thrived on positional flexibility, pressing structure and creative incision. Simons is all of those things: adaptable, intelligent and industrious. Advertisement TEAMtalk suggest 'Liverpool manager Slot is an admirer of Simons's technical quality and maturity.' That admiration will likely be reciprocated. Both share Dutch roots, and both come from systems where work ethic and spatial understanding are non-negotiables. Simons's ability to function as a winger, attacking midfielder or even in a more withdrawn midfield role speaks to a footballing IQ that belies his age. He's not just filling gaps – he's shaping games. Financial Prudence and Strategic Fit At £60m, Simons is far more accessible than Wirtz. The article notes that Leipzig are open to selling if the valuation is met. It's a crucial detail. Liverpool have become increasingly selective with their major outlays, preferring players who offer immediate impact and future resale value. Interest Beyond Anfield It's worth noting, as TEAMtalk does, that another top Premier League club is also circling. Simons is 'keen to talk to interested parties, including Liverpool,' which signals a player aware of his stock but measured in his ambition. The sense is he wants a project where his qualities are amplified rather than diluted. Our View – Anfield Index Analysis From a fan perspective, this feels like the type of smart, forward-looking move Liverpool should be making. Xavi Simons isn't just another name on the carousel of summer targets – he's a player with real trajectory, both technically and tactically. Advertisement The £60m fee seems manageable given the going rates in the modern market, especially when the alternative – Wirtz – would cost nearly double and is likely Bayern-bound. What makes Simons particularly intriguing is how well he fits into Arne Slot's Liverpool. Simons could thrive alongside Szoboszlai and Salah, giving Liverpool multiple creative outlets across the midfield and forward lines. This isn't about replacing what's lost but enhancing what already exists. If Liverpool can move quickly and decisively, they may well secure a player who could define their next chapter.
