Tottenham Under De Zerbi: Simons Sees Big Things Ahead For 2026-27

Xavi Simons expects Tottenham to progress under Roberto De Zerbi after securing Premier League safety. De Zerbi arrived late in the 2025-26 campaign yet guided Spurs clear of relegation. Simons watched the decisive matches while injured and believes that momentum can shape the next season.

The Netherlands international missed the closing weeks with an anterior cruciate ligament injury. From the stands, Simons sensed a shift in belief around Tottenham. He felt the squad responded quickly to De Zerbi’s methods and now views the Italian’s first full pre-season as a key opportunity.

De Zerbi became Tottenham’s third head coach of 2025-26 after Igor Tudor and Thomas Frank. Tudor departed without a single Premier League win, increasing pressure on the club. De Zerbi then oversaw seven league matches, winning three, drawing two and losing two, to complete the rescue job.

Spurs ended a long winless streak soon after De Zerbi’s arrival. A 1-0 success over Wolves delivered the first league victory in 15 Premier League games. On the final day, another 1-0 win, this time against Everton, confirmed survival and ended a turbulent domestic campaign.

Reflecting on the season, Simons told CBS: "It's been a really difficult season, especially for the fans, I would say, but with the new coach, like Roberto coming in, we were really happy with him," he told CBS. "I think there was a really good connection between the players and the staff. You could see in the last couple of games, even though I couldn't play, I was seeing it on the pitch, and the guys had a new boost and new vibe. That was something really positive, and now, going into next season, I think really big things are coming with the coach."

Simons still delivered useful Premier League numbers before injury. The midfielder scored two league goals and supplied five assists. Simons also created 34 chances, the second-highest figure for a Tottenham player. Only Pedro Porro produced more, with 53 chances, highlighting Simons’ influence in advanced areas.

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Simons values De Zerbi’s ideas and sees a natural fit with Tottenham’s attacking options. "A lot of players already spoke about him, but I would say for me, there was an extra boost because I know the way he wants to play," he added. "I know as well that he was an attacking midfielder too." "As a player, like me, and the position that I play, I like to have freedom, and I think he gave and is giving me that." "That's something that is really important and can bring my best game out." "So, I'm really happy about that."

Tottenham now prepare for the 2026-27 Premier League season under De Zerbi’s full guidance. Spurs open away against Brentford on 22 August, aiming for a steadier campaign. With Simons working back from injury and trusting the coach’s plan, expectations at the club increase again.