The Netherlands have been dealt a major setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after midfielder Xavi Simons was ruled out of the tournament due to a serious injury.
Simons confirmed the news on social media, revealing that his season has come to an end, a blow that also cuts short his campaign with Tottenham Hotspur.
The 23-year-old sustained the injury during Tottenham’s 1–0 Premier League win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
He was forced off in the 63rd minute after going down while chasing a long ball, leaving the pitch on a stretcher. Early indications suggest he has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.
“They say life can be cruel and today it feels that way,” the 23-year-old said in an Instagram post.
“My season has come to an abrupt end and I’m just trying to process it. Honestly, I’m heartbroken… All I’ve wanted to do is fight for my team, and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me… along with the World Cup. Representing my country this summer…just gone.”
An official medical update from Tottenham is expected later today, but early fears suggest Simons could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines, potentially keeping him out until 2027 if the ACL rupture is confirmed.
The injury represents a significant loss for Tottenham, where Simons had been one of the standout creative forces this season.
He impressed recently with a goal and assist against Brighton and was expected to play a key role in the club’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on Friday.
In the current EPL campaign, he has recorded two goals and five assists in 28 appearances, while also creating 34 chances and completing 802 passes.
His absence is also a major setback for the Netherlands national team, with Simons widely seen as a central figure in their World Cup plans.
His injury now leaves a noticeable gap in their midfield options ahead of the tournament.
