Spain and FC Barcelona legend Xavi Hernández has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands men’s national football team.
The 46-year-old manager has signed a four-year contract with the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) running through the 2030 FIFA World Cup, making him the first foreign national to lead Oranje in 48 years—since Austrian tactician Ernst Happel in 1978.
Successor to Ronald Koeman
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| Xavi Hernández has been officially appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands |
Xavi takes over from Ronald Koeman following the Netherlands' early exit from the 2026 World Cup at the hands of Morocco.
Speaking on his decision, Xavi stated he feels like a "son of Dutch football," citing the heavy tactical influence of La Masia pioneers Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, as well as his former managers Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard.
The agreement commits Xavi to steer the national team through the UEFA Euro 2028 campaign and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
His official debut on the Dutch bench will take place on September 24 in a UEFA Nations League fixture against Germany at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.
Contract & Profile Overview
| Detail | Official Information |
| Manager | Xavi Hernández (46 | Spain) |
| Role | Head Coach, Netherlands Men's National Team |
| Contract Duration | 4 Years (August 2026 – July 2030) |
| Historic Precedent | First non-Dutch manager since Ernst Happel (1977–1978) |
| First Match | vs. Germany (UEFA Nations League – Sept 24, 2026) |
