"It caused unrest" – Ole Werner looks back on Xavi Simons' transfer saga | OneFootball

After months of speculation, Xavi Simons finally left RB Leipzig towards the end of the transfer window, joining Tottenham for a reported fee of €65 million.

Looking back, RB Leipzig coach Ole Werner admitted he was “relieved” once the transfer saga surrounding the Dutchman was over.

"I was relieved when the transfer window closed. With Xavi, it was clear he’d go – just not when. That was a burden for him, the team, and the environment. It caused unrest," Werner told Sport Bild.

"Only once I knew the final squad and the transfer period was over could I plan concretely."

He added that Simons’ departure opened opportunities for other players to step up.

"When a key player leaves, it creates space for others to grow. He was a strong character in the team. The restructuring released energy for a fresh start," he said.