Xavi becomes first non-Dutch Netherlands coach since 1978

Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández has become the first non-Dutch coach to lead the Netherlands, signing a four-year contract with the national team. Born in Spain and a product of Barcelona's youth academy, Xavi will become the first foreign coach to helm the Netherlands since Austrian coach Ernst Happel left the position in 1978.

Ronald Koeman recently resigned as coach following a World Cup loss to Morocco. Xavi expressed his gratitude, stating that growing up in the Barca system influenced him greatly, with Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels among his key mentors. Xavi acknowledged that playing under successful coaches such as Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard further shaped his coaching philosophy.

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot had previously interviewed for the job but opted out, preferring to manage a club. Xavi's tenure with the Netherlands comes after his retirement from playing in 2019 and his managerial stint at Al-Sadd. He made his mark with Spain in 2010, leading them to victory in the World Cup final against the Netherlands.

After leaving Barcelona in 2024, Xavi now faces his first managerial challenge since leaving the Catalan giants.