The Royal Dutch Football Association officially announced the appointment of Spaniard Xavi Hernandez as the head coach of the first national team, marking the former Barcelona manager’s return to the dugout through his first experience in international management.
Xavi succeeds Ronald Koeman, who ended his second tenure following the Netherlands’ exit from the 2026 World Cup after losing to Morocco on penalties in the Round of 32.
The 46-year-old coach signed a contract extending until the end of the 2030 World Cup, leading a comprehensive project aimed at bringing the Oranje back to competing for major tournaments.
Xavi said after his appointment: “It is a great honor to become the coach of the Netherlands national team. As someone who graduated from the Barcelona academy and was heavily influenced by Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, I feel a special connection to Dutch football, and it could be said that I am one of its sons.”
He added: “The Netherlands possesses a rich footballing culture and a clear vision that greatly appeals to me; attacking football based on possession, creativity, passion, and confidence. The ultimate goal will always be to win, but I prefer to achieve it in a way that people enjoy.”
Nigel de Jong, Director of Football at the Dutch FA, confirmed that Xavi’s philosophy, based on initiative, possession, and attacking play, aligns with the national team’s identity. He noted that his personality and ability to influence players made him the most suitable choice for the upcoming phase.
Xavi began his managerial career with Al Sadd in 2019, winning several domestic titles with the Qatari club before taking over Barcelona between 2021 and 2024, leading them to win the Spanish La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup during the 2022-2023 season.
Xavi will work in the coming weeks to finalize his backroom staff. He stated in this regard: “We intend to form a coaching staff that includes Dutch members because their knowledge of the football, the players, and the local culture will be of great value,” before officially beginning his mission with the Oranje during the next international break.
