Xavi appointed new head coach of the Netherlands national team
Xavi Hernández, the former Barcelona manager, has been officially named the new head coach of the Netherlands national team. The Dutch football federation announced the appointment, welcoming Xavi to the role. The agreement between Xavi and the federation was finalised and signed today, marking a new chapter in his coaching career with a national team.
Xavi expressed his honour at becoming the head coach, highlighting a special connection to Dutch football due to his upbringing in the FC Barcelona academy. He noted the influence of figures like Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, and also mentioned Louis van Gaal, under whom he debuted at Barcelona, and Frank Rijkaard, as important in his development as a player and coach. He described himself as “a bit of a son of Dutch football.”
Contract and Previous Roles
Xavi, who is 46 years old, has signed a four-year contract with the Dutch FA (KNVB). This contract extends until 2030, meaning he is set to lead the team through the European Championship in 2028 and the World Cup two years later. This appointment makes him the first foreign coach to hold the position since the 1970s.
Prior to this role, Xavi had been without a job since his departure from FC Barcelona in 2024. During his time with the Catalan club, he secured the Spanish Super Cup and LaLiga title in the 2022/23 season. His managerial career began at Al Sadd in Qatar, the last club he played for, where he spent two years before joining Barcelona in 2021 on a three-year contract.
The Search for a New Coach
The Netherlands had been seeking a new manager following Ronald Koeman’s resignation. Koeman stepped down days after the team’s early exit from the FIFA World Cup, where they were eliminated in the round of 32 by Morocco on penalties, despite finishing at the top of Group F.
The KNVB reportedly considered several candidates for the position, including Erik ten Hag, Arne Slot, Peter Bosz, and Pep Guardiola. Louis van Gaal also showed interest in the role, and Roberto Martinez was approached recently. However, the Dutch FA ultimately chose Xavi. Arne Slot had previously clarified his intentions to remain in club football, stating that he preferred to be on the training pitch with players daily, a dynamic not possible with a national team.
Nigel de Jong, a former international player and current KNVB director, praised Xavi’s experience and coaching philosophy. De Jong noted Xavi’s extensive playing career, which includes a World Cup title, multiple domestic league titles, and Champions League titles. He also highlighted Xavi’s managerial development under top coaches who advocate an attacking, possession-based style of football, which aligns with the Dutch team’s desired approach.
Vision and Upcoming Fixture
Xavi articulated his vision for the national team, emphasising the Netherlands’ “rich football culture” and a clear philosophy that appeals to him: attacking football rooted in possession, creativity, passion, and conviction. He stated that while winning is the primary goal, he prefers to achieve it in a manner that reflects these characteristics and provides enjoyment for fans. He believes there is a strong foundation to build upon and looks forward to working with the players, staff, and the KNVB.
Reports indicate that Patrick Kluivert will join Xavi’s staff as an assistant, following his previous role leading Indonesia between January and October 2025. Xavi’s first match in charge will be a UEFA Nations League encounter against Germany, scheduled to take place on September 24th at the Johan Cruyff ArenA.
Source: goal.com
