Xavi Simons ‘heartbroken’ after knee injury rules him out of season and World Cup

Xavi Simons has said he is “heartbroken” after a serious knee injury ruled him out for the rest of the season with Tottenham Hotspur and this summer’s World Cup.

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder was stretchered off during Tottenham’s 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday after a collision with defender Hugo Bueno. Early reports suggest he may have suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Simons initially tried to continue after the incident but soon went down again, prompting medical staff to intervene.

In an emotional message shared on social media, the Netherlands international said the injury had come as a devastating blow.

“They say life can be cruel and today it feels that way. My season has come to an abrupt end and I’m just trying to process it. Honestly, I’m heartbroken,” he wrote.

The setback comes at a critical time for Tottenham, who are battling relegation from the Premier League. Spurs currently sit 18th in the table, two points from safety with four matches remaining.

Simons also confirmed he will miss the 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico, where the Netherlands are due to open their campaign against Japan.

“All I’ve wanted to do is fight for my team and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me… along with the World Cup,” he added.

Despite the setback, Simons expressed determination to recover and return stronger, pledging to support his teammates through the remainder of the campaign.