RB Leipzig faces a challenging period after losing dynamic midfielder Xavi Simons to a ligament injury. His absence leaves a significant void as the team gears up for crucial Bundesliga and Champions League fixtures.
RB Leipzig's energetic midfielder, Xavi Simons, is set to be sidelined for several weeks due to a ligament injury in his left ankle. The 21-year-old Dutch international sustained the injury during an intense Champions League match against Liverpool, adding to the growing challenges faced by Marco Rose's squad this season. Although the exact treatment plan is yet to be decided, Simons' absence will undoubtedly impact Leipzig's campaign, both domestically and in European competitions.
Simons, renowned for his outstanding vision and playmaking skills, has been instrumental in Leipzig's early success this season. Having returned to the Bundesliga on loan from Paris Saint-Germain for the 2024-25 season, the young talent swiftly re-established himself as a key player in Rose's tactical plan. His absence now creates a challenging gap to fill, particularly as Leipzig gears up for significant matches against Bundesliga powerhouses Borussia Dortmund and Freiburg, along with crucial Champions League games against Celtic and Inter Milan.
Simons sustained a ligament injury in his left ankle during the final moments of Leipzig's close 1-0 loss to Liverpool. While trying to take a shot towards the end of the match, Simons collided with a Liverpool defender, resulting in damage that required him to be substituted in the 78th minute. Despite Yussuf Poulsen replacing him, Leipzig found it difficult to regain their creative edge, finishing the match unable to change the scoreline.
After the game, medical evaluations disclosed the seriousness of Simons' injury, though the club has not yet decided on a specific treatment plan. Leipzig has announced that the young midfielder will be out for 'several weeks,' but this period could be longer, depending on how well the injury heals. With Simons' return unclear, Rose will need to adjust his squad in the upcoming weeks to make up for the Dutchman's absence.
This injury comes at a particularly challenging time for Leipzig. Simons has been a key player, contributing with three goals and two assists over 11 appearances this season, maintaining the impressive form he displayed during his loan spell last year, where he scored 10 goals and provided 15 assists in 43 matches. His role in creating attacking opportunities and breaking through defenses has been vital for Leipzig, and finding a replacement for his skills will be a significant challenge for Rose.
Beyond domestic competitions, Simons' absence could affect Leipzig's ambitions in the Champions League. His creativity and versatility were crucial to their European campaign last season, and the team's chances of reaching the knockout stages this year might be at risk without his influence in midfield. Simons also showcased his form internationally, playing a significant role for the Netherlands in their European Championship run, where he scored during their semi-final loss to England.
With Leipzig's upcoming continental match against Celtic approaching quickly, Rose will need to reconsider his strategy. Players like Dani Olmo and Yussuf Poulsen will need to elevate their performances in Simons' absence, but the team will certainly feel the loss of the Dutchman's sharpness and tactical understanding. Leipzig's success depends on how well they manage this challenging phase without their key playmaker.
