Rome, 13 Aug. (LaPresse) – Xavi Hernández has been appointed as the new manager of the Netherlands men’s national team. The 46-year-old Spanish manager takes over from Ronald Koeman. Xavi has reached an agreement with the KNVB for a contract running until the 2030 FIFA World Cup. “It is a great honour to become head coach of the Dutch national team. Having come through the Barcelona youth system, with strong influences from figures such as Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, I feel a special connection with Dutch football. You could say that, in a sense, I am a product of Dutch football. Other great managers too, particularly Louis van Gaal – under whom I made my debut for Barcelona – and Frank Rijkaard, have played an important role in shaping me both as a player and as a manager,” comments the Spaniard. “The Netherlands has a rich footballing culture and a clear vision that appeals to me greatly: an attacking style of football, based on possession, with creativity, passion and conviction,” continues Xavi. “Of course, the main objective is always to win, but I prefer to do so in a way that reflects these characteristics and is a pleasure to watch. The potential is there, as are the solid foundations on which to build. I can’t wait to embark on this challenge alongside the players, the staff and everyone who works at the KNVB.”
Xavi appointed new Netherlands manager until the 2030 World Cup
Rome, 13 Aug. (LaPresse) – Xavi Hernández has been appointed as the new manager of the Netherlands men’s national team. The 46-year-old Spanish manager takes over from Ronald Koeman. Xavi has reached an agreement with the KNVB for a contract running until the 2030 FIFA World Cup. “It is a great honour to become head coach of the Dutch national team. Having come through the Barcelona youth system, with strong influences from figures such as Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, I feel a special connection with Dutch football. You could say that, in a sense, I am a product of Dutch football. Other great managers too, particularly Louis van Gaal – under whom I made my debut for Barcelona – and Frank Rijkaard, have played an important role in shaping me both as a player and as a manager,” comments the Spaniard. “The Netherlands has a rich footballing culture and a clear vision that appeals to me greatly: an attacking style of football, based on possession, with creativity, passion and conviction,” continues Xavi. “Of course, the main objective is always to win, but I prefer to do so in a way that reflects these characteristics and is a pleasure to watch. The potential is there, as are the solid foundations on which to build. I can’t wait to embark on this challenge alongside the players, the staff and everyone who works at the KNVB.”