Xavi Named New Netherlands Manager
The Netherlands national football team has announced the appointment of former Barcelona coach and captain, Xavi, as their new manager.
Having been without a managerial role since his departure from the Nou Camp in 2024, the 46-year-old tactician has been selected to succeed Ronald Koeman.
Xavi has committed to a contract that will see him lead the Dutch squad up to and including the 2030 World Cup.
"I am deeply honored to take on the role of coach for the Dutch national team," Xavi stated. "Having developed through Barcelona's academy, significantly influenced by luminaries such as Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, I feel a profound connection to Dutch football. It's fitting to say I am, in a sense, a product of Dutch football."
The Dutch Football Association parted ways with Ronald Koeman, also a former Barcelona manager, following their elimination from the World Cup by Morocco.
Koeman faced considerable criticism for his team's defensive tactics against the African champions, a stark departure from the Netherlands' renowned attacking philosophy.
While Roberto Martinez, formerly of Belgium and Portugal, was reportedly considered for the position, Xavi has now secured his first international coaching assignment.
Xavi was a part of the Spanish squad that triumphed at the 2010 World Cup. His coaching journey began at Al Sadd in Qatar before he took the helm at Barcelona in 2021. During his tenure, he guided the team to the LaLiga title in the 2022-23 season and secured the Spanish Super Cup in 2023.
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