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Xavi Hernández appointed head coach of Netherlands national team

Xavi Hernández has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands national football team, signing a contract through the 2030 World Cup. He succeeds Ronald Koeman following the team's exit from the 2026 World Cup.

During his presentation at the KNVB headquarters in Zeist, Director of Football Nigel de Jong revealed that Xavi was the third choice for the position, after Pep Guardiola declined due to a planned sabbatical and Arne Slot chose to remain in club football. Xavi remarked that being third after such names was “at least on the podium.”

The former Barcelona midfielder aims to restore the “Total Football” identity, emphasizing an attacking philosophy, ball possession, and high pressure. His coaching staff includes Sergio Alegre, Óscar Hernández, Iván Torres, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Adil Ramzi, and goalkeeping coach Patrick Lodewijks.

Xavi's first match in charge will be a Nations League fixture against Germany on September 24. He also addressed player selection, stating that performance remains the priority regardless of whether players compete in the Eredivisie or the Saudi Pro League.

Entities

KNVB · Netherlands national football team · Netherlands national team · Nigel de Jong · Pep Guardiola · Ronald Koeman · Royal Dutch Football Association · Ruud van Nistelrooy · Xavi Hernández · Zeist

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