Luís Enrique labels Xavi Simons ‘an interesting option’ ahead of potential PSG return

Xavi Simons (20) is currently having a highly constructive loan spell at RB Leipzig. With nine goals and 13 assists in all competitions with the Bundesliga club this season, the Dutchman’s form has not gone unnoticed at parent club Paris Saint-Germain. 

On Thursday evening, Luís Enrique responded to a wide range of questions on Twitch, as he did whilst manager of Spain during the Qatar World Cup. Given Simons’ form, the Dutchman’s future at the Parc des Princes was a topic that was broached by the Spaniard. 

“He’s going wonders at PSV and now at Leipzig,” began Luís Enrique. “He has shown himself to be one of the best players in the team. He has ideal individual characteristics for a model and a philosophy like ours. I don’t know exactly the conditions in which he is loaned to Leipzig, but he could clearly be an interesting option for us. It will depend on the club,” he added. 

Simons’ contract with PSG runs until 2027, however, there is no guarantee that he will be playing his football at the Parc des Princes next season. As revealed by L’Équipe, there is a clause in the Dutchman’s contract, which gives him the agency to decide his future. 

A further year on loan at Leipzig cannot be ruled out, however, certain conditions may have to be met. Simons has two requirements for next season: Champions League football and regular game time. With Leipzig currently fifth in the Bundesliga, the East German club may not be able to provide the former. That will be no issue at PSG and with Kylian Mbappé’s departure forthcoming, the latter could also be provided by Les Parisiens. Regardless, Simons clearly has a place in Luís Enrique’s vision of PSG’s future.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle