Xavi Simons’ slow start at Tottenham has drawn comparisons to Richarlison’s inconsistency, raising fears he could become another expensive disappointment.
Tottenham Hotspur’s £51 million signing, Xavi Simons, is under growing scrutiny after a lacklustre start that has reminded fans of Richarlison’s inconsistent spell at the club.
Simons arrived from RB Leipzig last summer amid huge expectations, with Spurs beating Chelsea to his signature. Journalist Graeme Bailey described him as a “superstar” signing, but the Dutchman has failed to live up to the hype, recording just one assist in eight appearances across all competitions.
The 22-year-old’s form has sparked comparisons to Richarlison, who has struggled for consistency since joining from Everton. Despite a promising start under new boss Thomas Frank, the Brazilian has scored only once in his last 11 matches and recently lost his place in the starting lineup.
While Simons possesses immense technical ability and defensive work rate, his adaptation to the Premier League has been slow. Critics fear that if his “patchy” output continues, he could face the same fate as Richarlison — praised for potential but marked by inconsistency.
Tottenham are currently two points behind Manchester City, but with injured playmakers James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski nearing return, Simons will need to prove his worth quickly to retain his place and avoid becoming another high-priced disappointment at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.