Netherlands Xavi Simons suffers ACL injury, ending World Cup 2026 hopes

Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons suffers suspected ACL injury in right knee, ruling out FIFA World Cup appearance.

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Xavi Simons has suffered a serious knee injury that is expected to keep him out of the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The 23-year-old was injured during Tottenham’s match against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday and left the pitch on a stretcher in the 63rd minute. Early reports indicate that Simons suffered an injury to his right ACL.

Simons was seen clutching his right knee in pain after the incident, which has brought an end to his season. In a social media post, he expressed his disappointment and frustration at the turn of events. “They say life can be cruel and today it feels that way,” he said. “My season has come to an abrupt end and I’m just trying to process it.”

The injury is also a significant setback for Tottenham, who are struggling in the Premier League. The team currently sits 18th with 34 points, two points away from relegation safety. Simons was expected to play a key role in Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad at the World Cup, but his injury has cast doubt on his participation.

Other notable players, including Lamine Yamal of Spain and Barcelona, Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Egypt, and Hugo Ekitike of France, are also likely to miss parts of the tournament due to injuries.

Source: Al Jazeera