Netherlands turn to Xavi for Euro and World Cup push

Xavi Hernández has been appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands, succeeding Ronald Koeman and returning to management after nearly two years out of the dugout.

The 46-year-old Spaniard has signed a four-year contract with the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) that will keep him in charge through 2030. His first match will come on September 24 against Germany in the UEFA Nations League.

Xavi’s appointment marks a rare moment in Dutch football. He is the first foreign coach to take charge of the Netherlands since Austria’s Ernst Happel led the team at the 1978 World Cup.

Speaking after his appointment, Xavi described the role as a “great honour” and highlighted his long-standing connection with Dutch football. He said the football philosophies of Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels had a major influence on him during his development at Barcelona’s academy.

There is also a notable link between Xavi and his predecessor. His coaching breakthrough at Barcelona came in 2021 after Koeman was dismissed, with Xavi leaving Qatari club Al Sadd to take over at the Catalan giants.

Xavi guided Barcelona to the La Liga title and Spanish Super Cup in the 2022-23 season. However, after a trophyless 2023-24 campaign, he was replaced by German coach Hansi Flick.

Before Barcelona, Xavi enjoyed a successful spell at Al Sadd, where he began his managerial career in 2019 and won seven trophies.

His credentials as a player are even more impressive. A legendary Barcelona midfielder, Xavi won numerous major honours at club level and played a key role in Spain’s golden generation, helping the national team win the 2010 World Cup and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

After leaving Barcelona, Xavi turned down several offers from clubs and national teams before recently expressing a renewed interest in international management. The Netherlands now represents his first return to the touchline since 2024.

Xavi believes the Dutch squad has enough talent to compete at the highest level. His immediate challenge will be to build a cohesive side capable of challenging for the Euro 2028 title and making a deep run at the 2030 World Cup.