Xavi Simons led RB Leipzig team-mates into 'dangerous' Sao Paulo slum during Brazil trip as details emerge of breakdown in relationship before Tottenham move

Simons’ RB Leipzig stint came to a turbulent end as reports surfaced of off-field controversies that contributed to his breakdown in relations with the Bundesliga club before sealing a blockbuster move to Tottenham. The Dutch midfielder allegedly sparked discontent within the squad during Leipzig’s PR tour in Brazil. According to Sport Bild, Simons led team-mates into a "dangerous" Sao Paulo slum against the advice of the club’s travel agency. Security staff quickly intervened, and players reportedly confronted Simons afterward. Tensions only escalated further in pre-season, with Leipzig’s hierarchy said to be frustrated at his attitude and commitment, while his body language during defeats earned internal criticism. The midfielder eventually completed a €60 million (£50m/$65m) switch to Spurs, who beat Chelsea and Bayern to his signature.

The tensions at Leipzig reportedly reached boiling point before the start of this season, when Simons is said to have skipped a kit supplier event with Alpha Tauri, dismissing it by telling Leipzig staff he would not be around at the start of the campaign anyway. Sporting director Marcel Schafer was left furious, while senior figures within the team criticised his body language after a heavy defeat to Bayern. Some players even dubbed him “Princess” for his visible sulking after poor results. Meanwhile, Bayern had considered signing him permanently, with Vincent Kompany personally lobbying Uli Hoeness at Tegernsee to push for a deal.

In hindsight, Bayern may feel they avoided a risky investment despite his clear talent. Spurs, however, chose to act decisively, offering Simons the No.7 shirt and a key role in Thomas Frank’s rebuild. For the player, the transfer represents the leap he has long craved, onto the Premier League stage and into a system that promises him both responsibility and freedom.

For Leipzig, Simons’ departure closed a chapter filled with both brilliance and turbulence, on the one hand, he was one of their brightest attacking sparks. On the other, his off-field decisions, clashes with management, and alleged disregard for professionalism reportedly strained relations inside the dressing room. For Tottenham, however, he is viewed as a statement signing, a long-term playmaker to cover for James Maddison’s injury.

All eyes now turn to how Simons adapts to life in north London as hee will be tasked with carrying creative responsibility in Maddison’s absence, slotting into a team that is still finding its rhythm under Frank. Spurs hope his versatility, and attacking drive will energise their push for a top-four finish and provide long-term consistent service.

Beyond club football, Simons’ Premier League exposure could elevate his role with the Netherlands national team as Ronald Koeman continues to shape a side built on youth and dynamism. The question is whether the raw talent that often dazzled at Leipzig can thrive without the distractions that undermined his last chapter. If he can channel his energy solely into football, Spurs may have landed not just Maddison’s stand-in, but one of the defining creative midfielders of the next generation.