Xavi Hernandez named Netherlands head coach, becoming first foreign manager since 1978

Xavi Hernandez has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands national team, the KNVB confirmed on Wednesday, ending a managerial absence that began when he left Barcelona in May 2024.

The 46-year-old Spaniard replaces Ronald Koeman, who departed after the Netherlands were knocked out in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup by Morocco, drawing 1-1 before losing 3-2 on penalties. Xavi becomes the first non-Dutch manager to lead the men’s Oranje since 1978.

The appointment ends more than a year on the sidelines for Xavi, who had signalled his interest in a national team role as recently as July. “My next step could be a national team. It would suit me, and I want that. I have family. A club wouldn’t allow me as much time with my family, I’ve got young children,” he said when discussing his next move.

Xavi brings a decorated coaching record to the role. He launched his managerial career at Qatari club Al Sadd in 2019 before taking charge of Barcelona in November 2021, guiding the club to a La Liga title and a Spanish Super Cup across three seasons.

As a player, he is among the most decorated midfielders of his generation, earning 133 caps for Spain and winning the 2010 World Cup as well as European Championship titles in 2008 and 2012.

The Netherlands’ disappointing World Cup exit under Koeman set the tone for a significant rebuild. Morocco’s penalty shootout victory in the round of 32 exposed vulnerabilities that the KNVB will expect Xavi to address ahead of the next cycle.

His first competitive test arrives quickly: the Netherlands face Germany in UEFA Nations League play on 24 September.