Xavi Simons delivers the perfect message for Tottenham as he outlines his intentions for Son’s former No. 7 shirt.
Xavi Simons is determined to create his own legacy at Tottenham Hotspur while wearing the No. 7 shirt made iconic by Son Heung-min during his decade-long spell in the Premier League. Son returned to north London on Tuesday night for the unveiling of a mural in his honour and to bid a proper farewell to the Spurs faithful at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The 33-year-old, who played his final match for Spurs in August during a pre-season friendly in South Korea, ended his illustrious spell with 454 appearances, 173 goals and the captaincy during the club’s Europa League triumph in May before moving to Los Angeles FC in MLS.
Ahead of the Champions League win over Slavia Prague, Son stepped onto the pitch once more and told supporters: “I will always be Spurs.” He then watched as Xavi Simons, who inherited his shirt number after joining from RB Leipzig for £52m, delivered another impressive display—scoring a penalty and dictating play throughout the 3-0 victory.
Although the pair did not overlap in the summer, Xavi said he wants to honour Son’s legacy while building his own at Tottenham.
“I hadn’t met Son properly until now. He’s a huge legend here and it’s an honour to take his number and try to create my own legacy,” the Dutch midfielder said. “Scoring is great, but feeling good on the pitch matters most. I’m enjoying the moment.”
Mohammed Kudus, who also scored from the spot, revealed Son’s message to the dressing room when he visited his former teammates:
“He told us, ‘keep going, it’s a long season—stay focused and continue what you’re doing’. He’s a legend. I wish I’d played with him longer, but it was great to see him again.”
Ben Davies, Son’s close friend, was also warmly received as he made his first appearance of the season.
“It was great to see him,” Davies said. “I miss having him around day-to-day, but we still talk all the time. It meant a lot to him to get that send-off. He was emotional about the mural—it’s special for him and for the area.”
