Xavi Simons reveals what Ronald Koeman told him about leaving PSV

PSV surprised everyone by bringing the attacking midfielder to Eindhoven on loan last year. Simons quickly became one of the standout performers in the Eredivisie and earned a spot in Louis van Gaal's World Cup squad. He continued to perform at a high level after the winter break, attracting the attention of top European clubs. 

While the possibility of a longer stay at PSV was not ruled out initially, it was announced on July 16th that Simons would be leaving Eindhoven.

That was a month after the Nations League Final Four. Under Koeman, Simons can count on a starting position in the Dutch national team. So, it was crucial for the national coach that Simons made a wise choice. 'He was one of the first people I called,' says the RB Leipzig footballer in an interview with Algemeen Dagblad. 'Koeman has also lived in Spain, knows my Spanish background, and understands what suits me. He said, 'If I were you, I would either stay at PSV or take a step up to a club where you will play a lot.'

While Simons did leave PSV for PSG, he is getting minutes this season on loan at RB Leipzig. According to Simons himself, he has fulfilled Koeman's wish. 'I have found that club (where I will play a lot, red),' says the Dutch international. 'I think it will be a great season.'

Playing for the Dutch national team

Simons has started off strongly in Germany, scoring two goals and providing three assists in the first three league matches. It is hoped that the dribbler will continue his good form in the European Championship qualifiers against Greece and Ireland. In the previous international matches, Simons had some struggles. 'I don't think I was too eager. I got Koeman's trust, so you have to show it. Sometimes it works right away, sometimes it doesn't. Pressure? No, I don't feel pressure, not even in the national team. But when you're 20 years old, not everything can always go smoothly.'