Xavi takes over Dutch reins from Koeman

Xavi Hernandez, a celebrated figure from FC Barcelona, is stepping in as the new head coach for the Dutch national football team. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) announced the appointment on X, confirming a four-year deal for the 46-year-old Spaniard.

Hernandez shared his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "As someone who received his football education at Barcelona's academy, which is strongly inspired by Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, among others, I feel a special connection to Dutch football." He further elaborated, "One could almost say that I am a son of Dutch football." He also acknowledged the influence of prominent coaches like Louis van Gaal, under whom he debuted at Barcelona, and Frank Rijkaard.

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As someone who received his football education at Barcelona's academy, which is strongly inspired by Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, among others, I feel a special connection to Dutch football.

The former midfielder succeeds Ronald Koeman, who left his post after the Netherlands' elimination in the Round of 16 at the summer World Cup. This is not the first time Hernandez has taken over from Koeman; he also replaced him at Barcelona in November 2021 after Koeman's dismissal.

Xavi, as he is commonly known, has been without a coaching job since his departure from Barcelona in 2024, where he was let go following a period of disappointing results. His coaching career began in Qatar with Al-Sadd, the same club where he concluded his playing career. During his extensive playing career, Hernandez represented Barcelona in 767 matches, securing numerous titles including eight Spanish championships, three Copa del Rey titles, four Champions League titles, and two Club World Cups. As a coach for Barcelona, he led the team to a Spanish championship in 2023.

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One could almost say that I am a son of Dutch football.