The Dutch midfielder is suspected of suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee, ending his chances of playing in the FIFA World Cup.
Published April 27, 2026
Tottenham Hotspur’s Dutch midfielder Xavi Simons has said his football season has “suddenly ended” after suffering a serious knee injury that has put his participation in the FIFA World Cup in doubt.
Simmons was injured in Tottenham’s 1-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, leaving the pitch on a stretcher in the 63rd minute, with initial reports suggesting he had injured his right anterior cruciate ligament.
The 23-year-old was left clutching his right knee in pain.
“They say life can be cruel, and today I feel that way,” he said in an Instagram post.
“My season came to an abrupt end and I’m just trying to process it. Honestly, I’m heartbroken… All I wanted to do was fight for my team and now that ability to do that has been taken away too… along with the World Cup. Representing my country this summer… is gone.”
Simmons was expected to be a key player for Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad as they prepare for their second World Cup since their debut in 2022. He has won 34 caps, most recently appearing in a friendly last month.
The injury is a major blow to Spurs during a difficult Premier League season, with the north London side sitting 18th on 34 points, two points outside of the relegation zone.
He joins a list of key players likely to miss part of the upcoming World Cup, including Spain and Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah and France team-mate Hugo Ekitike.
