Former Spanish star Xavi Hernandez appointed as Netherlands coach

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Spanish football icon Xavi Hernandez was named the new head coach of the Netherlands on Wednesday, becoming the first foreign manager to lead the Dutch national team in nearly five decades.

Xavi, who featured for the Spain side that defeated the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final, takes charge following the departure of Ronald Koeman. The 46-year-old had been without a managerial role since stepping down as Barcelona manager in May 2024. He has agreed to a contract running through to the 2030 World Cup.

Reflecting on his appointment, the former FC Barcelona midfielder noted his deep affinity for Dutch footballing principles, which were instilled in him through La Masia’s roots tied to Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels.

“You could say that I am a bit of a son of Dutch football. Other great coaches, especially Louis van Gaal, under whom I made my debut at Barcelona, and Frank Rijkaard, also played an important role in shaping me as a player and coach.” Xavi said.

The appointment makes Xavi the first foreign coach to take charge of the Oranje since Austrian manager Ernst Happel’s tenure from 1977 to 1978.

Xavi speaks about the Dutch footballing philosophy 

Xavi emphasised that the identity of Dutch football aligns with his personal approach to the game.

“Of course, the most important goal is and always will be to win, but I prefer to do so in a way that reflects those characteristics and that people can enjoy. The potential for this is there, as well as a solid foundation to build upon,” he said.

Nigel de Jong, the technical director for the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) who faced Xavi in the 2010 World Cup final, praised the Spaniard’s tactical vision and leadership qualities.

“Xavi believes in those basic principles, has embraced that vision, and made it his own,” De Jong said. “All of that, combined with his personality and the way he knows how to connect with players and get the best out of a group, makes him the right choice for the coming years.”

(With input from ANI)

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