A son of Dutch football: Xavi honoured to be named Netherlands coach

Amsterdam, Aug 13: The selection of Xavi as the Netherlands coach marks a significant moment in Dutch football history and solidifies the strong bond between Dutch football and Barcelona. Xavi, a former World Cup winner with Spain, has been appointed to replace Ronald Koeman, who stepped down after the team's early exit from the 2022 World Cup.

The six-week search for a new coach faced criticism from the Dutch media, but ultimately led to the appointment of the first foreign coach since Ernst Happel in 1978. Xavi, who has no prior coaching experience, signed a four-year contract through the 2030 World Cup with the Dutch FA. His appointment comes as a surprise after several other candidates, including Arne Slot and Erik ten Hag, had also been considered.

Xavi's connection to Dutch football runs deep, as he spent three seasons as Barcelona's coach and coached the team to the La Liga title in 2023. His playing career included stints under Frank Rijkaard, Louis van Gaal, and Pep Guardiola at Barcelona, where he played alongside a number of Dutch internationals. As he looks to build the national team towards the European Championship in 2028 and the World Cup in 2030, Xavi aims to continue Barcelona's philosophy of dominant possession, short passing, and quick ball recovery.