Xavi Hernandez has been appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands national team, taking charge of the “Oranje” following the departure of Ronald Koeman.
The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) has announced that the former Barcelona coach has signed a four-year contract and will lead the Dutch national team for the next cycle.
The 46-year-old had been without a club since leaving Barcelona in 2024. During his time in charge of the Catalan club, he won the Spanish Super Cup and La Liga in the 2022/23 season.
The Netherlands were left without a coach following Koeman’s resignation, which came after the team’s early elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The “Oranje” finished top of their group but were eliminated by Morocco in the Round of 32 following a penalty shootout.
Before appointing Xavi, the KNVB had considered several alternatives for the position, including Erik ten Hag, Arne Slot, Peter Bosz and Pep Guardiola, while Louis van Gaal was also on the list.
Xavi expressed his delight at the opportunity to take charge of the Netherlands and highlighted his connection with the philosophy of Dutch football.
“I consider it an extraordinary honor to become head coach of the Netherlands national team. As someone who was developed at Barcelona’s academy under the influence of Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, among others, I feel a special connection with Dutch football,” Xavi said.
The former Barcelona midfielder has made it clear that he wants the Netherlands to play attacking football based on possession, creativity and initiative.
“The Netherlands has a rich football culture and a clear vision that appeals to me: attacking football based on possession, creativity, passion and conviction. Of course, the most important objective has always been and will always be winning, but I prefer us to win in a way that reflects these characteristics and allows the fans to enjoy themselves,” he stated.
Xavi began his coaching career at Al Sadd in Qatar, the club where he had also played as a footballer. In 2021, he returned to Barcelona, this time as head coach, winning two trophies during his spell at the club.
According to reports, former Dutch striker Patrick Kluivert is also expected to join his coaching staff with the Netherlands. Kluivert most recently managed the Indonesia national team.
KNVB director Nigel de Jong praised Xavi’s experience and football philosophy, describing him as the right choice for the Dutch national team’s new project.
Xavi’s debut in charge of the Netherlands will come on September 24, when they face Germany in the Nations League at the Johan Cruyff ArenA.
