Tottenham fans name ‘baller’ as Xavi Simons replacement after Monaco scenes
Xavi Simons was one of the many Tottenham players who failed to impress against Monaco.
It was thanks to Guglielmo Vicario’s efforts in Spurs’ goal that Tottenham earned a point against Monaco in Wednesday’s Champions League clash.
Vicario has come under fire at Tottenham in recent weeks for his poor performances, but his heroics in the principality were precisely the response supporters would’ve craved.
Meanwhile, Simons came on as a substitute deep into the second half after a disappointing showing against Aston Villa in the Premier League.
However, the attacking midfielder failed to impress once again.
Tottenham fans want Maghnes Akilouche over Xavi Simons
Tottenham were linked with Monaco forward Maghnes Akilouche towards the latter stages of the summer transfer window.
However, the North London side opted to sign Simons from RB Leipzig as their marquee signing. Fast forward a couple of months, and Tottenham fans have caught a case of buyer’s regret.
“Should have been him instead of Xavi really,” one supporter said via X on 22 October.
Another added: “I knew we should have signed him when we had the chance man.”
Meanwhile, one more said: “Akliouche has to be signed man.”
Others were quick to point out his raw talent and make damning observations about their own players.
“I’ve seen more creativity from him in 45 mins than all our midfielders combined so far this season,” one fan remarked.
Another remarked: “Baller, Odobert is hooping today too.” While one more added: “He’s been class.”
While Thomas Frank’s system is partly to blame for Simons’ performances, most fans will want to see a positive change over the coming months.
How did Maghnes Akliouche perform against Tottenham?
If Spurs’ hierarchy were not already considering going back in for Akliouche this summer, they most likely will be after that performance.
While he did not assist on the night, he registered 0.42 expected assists and created one big chance according to Sofascore.
- 100 per cent of his passes in his own half were accurate
- He had a 100 per cent dribble success rate
- Akliouche won seven out of 12 attempted ground duels
The only downside was his finishing, wherein he took six shots but failed to score. However, this seemed to be an issue for all of Monaco’s players, given that Vicario was unplayable.
All things considered, Akliouche’s vision, passing, and overall creative output would make him a top signing for Tottenham.
But for now, there’s nothing left but for fans to wait until the next year to see if he’s destined for Hotspur Way.
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