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Xavi, 46, a multi-time La Liga champion and four-time UEFA Champions League winner with Barcelona, ​​also won the FIFA World Cup and two European Championships with Spain. He takes over following the Netherlands’ unexpected elimination in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Morocco.

The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) issued a statement confirming the appointment and explaining that Xavi replaces Ronald Koeman.

Upon his appointment, Frank Rijkaard, has also played an important role in shaping me as both a player and as a coach.”

He added, “The Netherlands has a rich football culture and a clear vision that strongly appeals to me: attacking football, based on possession, with creativity, passion and conviction. Of course, the main objective is always to win, but I prefer to do so in a way that reflects those characteristics and that people can enjoy watching. The potential is there, as well as a strong foundation to build on. I am looking forward to starting this challenge together with the players, the staff and everyone within the “KNVB.”

Nigel de Jong, Director of Elite Football at the KNVB, commented, “Every new cycle requires us to take a fresh look at where we want to go, what we need to get there and which available head coach is the best fit. Xavi has experienced and won everything as a player, including a World Cup, multiple league titles and Champions League titles.”

He continued, “As a coach, he has been shaped by years of working with top coaches who share a footballing vision that aligns very well with the way we want the Netherlands national team to play: taking the initiative, playing dominant and attractive football, combined with the flexibility required in modern football at the highest level. brings the best out of a group, makes him the right choice for the coming years.”

Marianne van Leeuwen, managing director of the KNVB, stated, “With