Tottenham's Xavi Simons Enrols at Harvard While Recovering from ACL Injury
Tottenham midfielder Xavi Simons has enrolled in Harvard's Crossover into Business programme as he recovers from a long-term knee injury that caused him to miss the World Cup.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Xavi Simons has enrolled in a course at Harvard University as he continues his rehabilitation from a long-term knee injury. The 23-year-old Netherlands international has been sidelined since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in April, a setback that also prevented him from representing his country at the World Cup.
Simons has joined Harvard's Crossover into Business programme, an online course designed for professional athletes to build commercial and entrepreneurial skills. The programme matches participants with Harvard MBA students who guide them through practical case studies and enterprise management, offering a structured way for athletes to develop business acumen away from their sport.
The Dutch playmaker announced his enrolment on LinkedIn, stating that he wanted to make the most of his time during recovery. He described football as remaining his primary focus while expressing a desire to keep learning and improving away from the pitch. Simons also travelled to the United States recently to intensify his physical rehabilitation and visited Harvard's campus in Boston.
Despite the academic commitment, Simons stressed that returning to competitive action is his top priority. He said he wants to use the recovery period to invest in himself beyond football, a sentiment that highlights a growing trend among elite athletes seeking to prepare for life after their playing careers.
Supporters have reacted positively to the news, with many praising Simons for using his injury lay-off productively rather than focusing solely on his physical recovery. Some fans noted that the move reflects a mature approach to professional development, though others expressed hope that the extra commitments will not delay his return to the Tottenham first team.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
