Xavi Simons Out of 2026 World Cup Due to ACL Injury

Xavi Simons, a Dutch forward playing for Tottenham Hotspur, has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, which will end his season and prevent him from participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The injury occurred during Tottenham's 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he was carried off the field after collapsing following a challenge from defender Hugo Bueno.

Tottenham later confirmed the severity of the injury and that surgery would take place in the coming week. Simons announced the injury on social media, noting that ACL ruptures typically sideline players for six to nine months.

The Netherlands national team will begin their Group F campaign against Japan on June 14, 2026. Simons joined Tottenham from RB Leipzig for £52 million last summer and has made 28 Premier League appearances, scoring twice and providing five assists.

His injury comes at a critical moment as Tottenham sits 18th in the league, just two points above safety with four matches remaining.