Barcelona legend Xavi has been appointed as the head coach of the Netherlands national team.

The Dutch national football team has announced the official appointment of Barcelona legend Xavi as its new head coach, signing him to a four-year contract.

In the 2026 World Cup, Koeman led the Netherlands all the way to the round of 32. However, in the round of 32, after taking the lead with a goal from Gakopo, the Netherlands conceded a crucial goal at a critical moment and were eliminated by Morocco 2-3 in a penalty shootout. Unable to continue their World Cup journey, Koeman announced his resignation as head coach of the Dutch national team.

Xavi, from Spain, coached La Liga giants Barcelona from 2021 to 2024, leading them to one La Liga title and one Spanish Super Cup.

Xavi, 46, said, "I feel incredibly honored to be the head coach of the Dutch national team. As a player who was trained at the Barcelona youth academy, I was deeply influenced by Johan Cruyff, Linus Michels, and others, so I have a special connection with Dutch football."

"Actually, you could say I'm half a 'child' nurtured by Dutch football. I made my Barcelona first-team debut under other great coaches, especially Van Gaal. And Rijkaard also had a significant influence on my becoming a player and a coach."

Xavi said, "The Netherlands has a deep football culture and a very distinct football philosophy, which is also very appealing to me, including attacking football based on possession and an emphasis on creativity, passion and belief."

"As for the most important goal, it has always been to win, but I hope to win in a way that reflects these characteristics, while also allowing people to enjoy football."

Furthermore, Xavi stated, "We have the potential to achieve our goals and a solid foundation to continue building upon. I look forward to meeting this challenge with the players, coaching staff, and everyone at the Dutch Football Association."

Image source: Internet