Xavi becomes first non-Dutch Netherlands coach since 1978

Former Barcelona manager Xavi has been appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands on a four-year contract. The 46-year-old, who played for both Barcelona and Spain, will make history as the first non-Dutch coach to lead the Netherlands since Austrian coach Ernst Happel retired in 1978. Ronald Koeman resigned as Netherlands manager following a last-32 exit to Morocco during the 2022 World Cup.

Xavi expressed his honor, stating, "I consider it a tremendous honour to become head coach of the Dutch national team." He attributes his connection to Dutch football to his upbringing at Barcelona's academy, influenced by legends like Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, and his early coaching experience under Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard.

Xavi's Netherlands debut game is against Germany on September 24 in the Nations League. Arne Slot, former Liverpool head coach, had previously expressed interest in the role but withdrew to pursue club football opportunities. With his international trophy wins as part of Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning team, Xavi retired in 2019 to manage Al-Sadd before returning to Barcelona in November 2021. This will be Xavi's first managerial role since leaving Barcelona in 2024.