How Xavi Simons and James Maddison compare after their first seven Tottenham games

It has been a mixed start to life at Tottenham Hotspur for Xavi Simons, but how does it compare to James Maddison?

Tottenham Hotspur were busy in the summer transfer market, securing the services of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United and Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig.

The pair cost a little over £100 million, with Kudus arriving for a fee of around £55 million after proving himself in the Premier League.

The Ghanaian has made a quick impression, contributing one goal and four assists so far, his familiarity with English football clearly easing his transition into Thomas Frank’s side.

Xavi Simons’ early Tottenham struggles

Simons, however, has not quite hit the ground running for Tottenham, with the former RB Leipzig midfielder having been asked to fill multiple roles across the pitch.

He has been deployed on the left wing and as a number ten, though he has only featured once in his preferred attacking midfield position.

The Dutchman has managed just one assist, which came in his Premier League debut – a corner that was met by Pape Matar Sarr in the clash against West Ham United.

Here is Xavi Simons’ record in all English competitions so far this season:

But how does the £51 million signing compare to Tottenham’s last number ten recruit, James Maddison?

James Maddison’s instant impact for Spurs

Maddison, compared to Simons, made an immediate impression after joining Tottenham in the 2023/24 season from Leicester City for £40 million.

The England international registered four assists and two goals in his first seven appearances, seamlessly settling into life in North London.

That form coincided with Ange Postecoglou’s bright start as Tottenham boss, when the club won eight of their opening ten league matches, with Maddison playing a starring role in midfield.

While Simons has not enjoyed the same start, it is worth noting that Maddison already had Premier League experience before his move, whereas Simons is adapting to a new country, a new league, and a new style of play.

Maddison’s familiarity with English football undoubtedly helped his quick integration, while Simons has had to contend with being shifted across positions and balancing Champions League duties.

Both players, of course, bring different qualities, and at just 22, Simons has time on his side – his potential remains clear even if his early form has been inconsistent.

Hopefully, by the end of the season, the conversation surrounding the Dutchman may look entirely different, as he continues to settle into life under Thomas Frank and the rhythm of English football.

• READ MORE: Dutch journalist warns Tottenham that Xavi Simons is not a playmaker