Xavi Hernández has been appointed as the new head coach of the Netherlands national team, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The former Barcelona manager has agreed a long-term contract that will see him lead the Dutch side through the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The appointment marks Xavi’s first move into international management since beginning his coaching career and comes more than two years after he left Barcelona.
Xavi had been out of work since departing the Catalan club in May 2024, having previously guided Barcelona to the La Liga title during the 2022/23 season.
The 46-year-old now takes charge of one of international football’s most historic teams as the Netherlands begin a new era following Ronald Koeman’s departure.
Interestingly, Xavi has now replaced Koeman as a manager for the second time in his coaching career. He previously succeeded the Dutchman at Barcelona in November 2021.
Kluivert set to join Xavi’s staff
Xavi is also expected to have a familiar Dutch football figure alongside him, with former Barcelona and Netherlands striker Patrick Kluivert set to join his coaching staff as an assistant.
The pair were teammates at Barcelona, giving Xavi an experienced figure with strong knowledge of Dutch football to work alongside him.
The appointment also represents a return to the international stage for Xavi, who was part of Spain’s golden generation as a player and won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and two European Championships.
