Xavi Hernández named Netherlands coach until 2030 World Cup

Xavi Hernández has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands national football team, succeeding Ronald Koeman, who resigned after the team's round-of-32 exit at the 2026 World Cup. The 46-year-old Spaniard signed a contract with the KNVB that runs until the 2030 World Cup, marking his first role as a national team coach Source: Infobae. He will make his debut on 24 September against Germany in the Nations League Source: Euronews.

Historical appointment

Xavi becomes the first foreign coach of the Netherlands in 48 years, since Austrian Ernst Happel led the team at the 1978 World Cup Source: El Colombiano. The appointment carries symbolic weight: Xavi was a key player for Spain when they defeated the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final Source: Excélsior.

Replacing Koeman again

This is the second time Xavi has replaced Koeman, having taken over from him at Barcelona in 2021 Source: La Vanguardia. Koeman, who had been in charge since 2023, left after the Oranje were eliminated by Morocco on penalties in the round of 32 Source: Hoy. Xavi, who has been without a club since leaving Barcelona in 2024, previously coached Al-Sadd and Barcelona, winning La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup in 2023 Source: El Nacional.

Style and staff

Xavi emphasized his affinity for Dutch football, saying he feels a special connection and considers himself "a son of this football" Source: El Nacional. He praised the Netherlands' "offensive football, based on possession, with creativity, passion and conviction" Source: El Colombiano. Reports suggest Patrick Kluivert may join his coaching staff, though this has not been officially confirmed Source: El Confidencial.