Xavi Simons, on loan to RB Leipzig from Paris Saint-Germain, has been very productive. After spending one season in the Netherlands with PSV Eindhoven, the 20-year-old has returned to the French capital. His loan to the German club was a short-lived one, though.

Simons has just begun his professional football career and was recently interviewed by Philipp Hinze of Sky Sports News. The midfielder recalls Neymar Jr.’s importance to his early career, back when they both played for FC Barcelona.

Simons described him as “like a father to me” because he had known him since they were both in Barcelona. I’ll be forever indebted to him for that. To share the stage with my hero was a lifelong dream come true, and he remains a significant figure in my life.

It’s tough for a young player to join a major team full of veterans and superstars like Neymar has done, but he’s handled it like a father. I owe him a great debt of gratitude.

This season, the midfielder has played in eight games for RB Leipzig, contributing to three goals and four assists. Many Paris Saint-Germain fans are optimistic about the future thanks to Simons’s continued ascent.

However, fans will have to keep up with the German club this season to witness the development of the young player. In addition, if the Netherlands makes it to the 2024 UEFA Euro, it could serve as the backdrop for the country’s big debut on the international stage.