Xavi Officially Takes Over Netherlands: 'A Son of Dutch Football'
The former Barcelona coach has succeeded the Oranje bench, keeping Ruud van Nistelrooy on his staff. His debut awaits against Germany in the Nations League.
The former Barcelona coach has succeeded the Oranje bench, keeping Ruud van Nistelrooy on his staff. His debut awaits against Germany in the Nations League.
Spanish tactician Xavi has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Dutch national football team, announced the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB). The news was confirmed on Thursday, August 13, 2026, ending the search for a successor on the Oranje bench after the World Cup.
In the official KNVB statement, Xavi emphasized a deep emotional connection with the Dutch school of football, citing influences absorbed during his playing and coaching career at Barcelona.
"It is an honor to become the coach of the Dutch national team. As someone who grew up in Barcelona's academy, heavily influenced by Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, I feel a special connection to Dutch football. You could say I am somewhat a son of Dutch football," Xavi said.
According to Dutch media outlet Algemeen Dagblad, former Oranje striker Ruud van Nistelrooy will retain a role in the new national team's coaching staff. The KNVB is reportedly satisfied with his work during the 2026 World Cup, and his presence is expected to ensure continuity within the domestic football environment.
Alongside Van Nistelrooy, goalkeeper coach Patrick Lodewijks also remains on staff, a position he has held since early 2023. This completes the domestic part of the technical team that will assist the Spanish strategist.
Xavi's first official test comes on Thursday, September 24, 2026, when the Netherlands host Germany at the Johan Cruyff Arena in a UEFA Nations League match. That encounter represents a demanding test of his tactical setup and team flexibility.
After Germany, the Oranje face matches against Serbia and Greece in the Nations League group, which will further demonstrate the team's consistency under new leadership.
In his statement, Xavi also highlighted the philosophy he wants to instill in the team, mentioning the influence of former Barcelona coaches Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard on his development as a player and coach.
"Of course, the most important goal will always be winning, but I would like to achieve it in a way that reflects those characteristics and that people can enjoy. The potential for that exists, as does a solid foundation on which we can build," Xavi added.
