- Leipzig's Xavi with reserved number on the back of the Titeljagd
Xavi Simons has chosen to return to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, following his feelings. "I want to make the right decisions in my career. I had a good year here and a good feeling after the last game. That was a key factor," said the 21-year-old midfielder, on his second loan from Paris Saint-Germain. Simons signed the contract for the upcoming Bundesliga season on Monday.
Despite other clubs like record champions FC Bayern Munich or Manchester United vying for Xavi, the Dutch national player has decided to return to the city of Leipzig: "I want to win. The club has ambitions. Leipzig is the perfect place and the perfect time for me."
Xavi is focused on this season
Another factor was the appreciation shown by the club, which had been pursuing the sought-after professional for months. "We gave him the feeling that you are important to us, but didn't pressure him every day," said sporting director Rouven Schröder, "the patience paid off." The club also did not pursue other players, according to Schröder: "We took our time. The position was reserved for Xavi."
Xavi receives another sign of appreciation from the club with the jersey number ten, and he aims to live up to the expectations in his second year. After scoring ten goals and providing 15 assists in 43 games last season with jersey number 20, Xavi wants to make his mark in the upcoming season. "The focus is on this season, that's where I want to give my best, then we'll see," says the professional, who was loaned from PSG without a purchase option.
RB Leipzig faces PSG in a friendly match on Saturday (6:00 PM). Whether Xavi will play for a longer period remains to be seen. He describes himself as "fit" after three weeks of vacation following the European Championship. However, coach Marco Rose will decide on Saturday if he is fit enough for a game.
Xavi's decision to return to RB Leipzig has sparked interest from notable clubs such as Manchester United, but he remains committed to Leipzig, citing their ambitions and the sense of importance they've made him feel. Despite speculation, it remains unclear if Xavi will be a part of Manchester United's plans in the future.
