Racing Club de Lens, the French football club where Xavi Simons played for many years before moving to RB Leipzig in Germany, has announced that the former player has passed away at the age of 41.

Simons, who was born on February 22, 1978, started his professional career with Lens, making over 300 appearances for the club and scoring 56 goals.

He moved to RB Leipzig in 2018 and made 13 appearances for the German club before retiring from professional football in January this year.

Simons' death comes as a shock to fans of both Lens and RB Leipzig, who have praised him for his skill, dedication and passion on the pitch.

His legacy will be remembered by all those who knew him, and he will be missed by his friends and family.

The RB Leipzig board has also released a statement expressing their condolences to Simons' family and friends.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Xavi Simons' loved ones during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Xavi Simons. Your contribution to football will never be forgotten.

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