According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Xavi Simons’ father held such great admiration for the current Barcelona manager, Xavi Hernandez, that he decided to name his own son “Xavi” in honour of the former Barcelona midfielder.
Xavi’s legacy as a Barcelona legend clearly left a lasting impression on Simons’ father, inspiring him to name his son after the legendary footballer.
This act not only highlights the deep respect Simons’ father had for the current manager but also suggests the significance of the Barcelona manager’s career and reputation in the world of football.
Xavi Simons – A brief history
Simons spent his formative years in La Masia, after having joined the club at just 7 years old during the 2010-11 season.
Despite his evident talent, Barça’s management eventually decided not to fully invest in his future, leading the young midfielder to accept an enticing offer from Paris Saint-Germain.
At Barcelona, Simons trained alongside notable players like Alejandro Balde, Fermin Lopez, and Marc Casado, becoming the natural leader both on and off the pitch.
His maturity set him apart, likely because of his strong footballing foundation at home, as his father, Regillio Simons, had a professional career in Dutch football with clubs such as Fortuna Sittard, NAC Breda, Willem II, and Den Haag.
A name that resembles
A fascinating aspect of Simons’ story is his name. Despite his Dutch and Surinamese heritage, he was named Xavi in honour of Xavi Hernandez.
Simons’ parents admired the legendary midfielder and chose his name to honour him. As a youth player, Simons also idolized Hernandez and treasured a photo he took with him.
Returning to Barcelona could mean reuniting with friends like Balde and Fermin, with whom he has stayed in touch. He is particularly close to Balde, whom he views as a lifelong brother.
Meanwhile, Simons’ move to Paris quickly disproved any scepticism about his abilities, proving that he was far more than just a commercial product.
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