The Dutch Football Federation announced on Wednesday evening the unexpected appointment of Xavi as the new head coach for the Netherlands. The Spanish tactician has signed a contract with the national team that runs until 2030, succeeding Ronald Koeman following a disappointing World Cup campaign.

For the first time since 1978, the Netherlands will not have a Dutch manager at the helm. After a World Cup deemed disappointing by the Oranje, who were eliminated in the Round of 16 by Morocco (1-1, 3-2 on penalties), Ronald Koeman, in his role since 2023, was dismissed by the Dutch federation.

And it is Xavi Hernandez, who has been without a coaching contract since the end of his tenure at FC Barcelona in 2024, who will take over the national team reins. His contract is set to last until 2030. This marks a significant move for the Spanish technician, who has only previously coached club teams.

'The Ideal Choice for Years to Come'

In a statement released by the Dutch federation, Xavi spoke at length about his deep connection to Dutch football, mentioning his time at FC Barcelona "under the influence of Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels." "You could say I am a child of Dutch football," the Catalan stated. According to Nigel de Jong, Xavi is "the ideal choice for the years to come," as he embodies "an attacking, dominant, and spectacular style of football, combined with the flexibility required by modern football."

For his debut on the Oranje's bench, Xavi will kick off with Nations League matches. This includes a home clash against Germany on September 24th, followed by an away game against Serbia three days later. This will be a quick baptism of fire for the new manager.

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English Translation and Paraphrased Text:

Xavi Appointed Netherlands Manager in Shock Appointment

The Dutch Football Federation has revealed the surprising news of Xavi's appointment as the new head coach for the Netherlands. The Spanish manager has secured a contract with the national team through to 2030, stepping in after Ronald Koeman's departure following a disappointing World Cup performance.

This marks the first time since 1978 that the Netherlands will be led by a non-Dutch manager. Following what was considered a lackluster World Cup campaign, where the Oranje were defeated by Morocco in the Round of 16 (1-1, 3-2 on penalties), Ronald Koeman, who had been in charge since 2023, was let go by the Dutch football authorities.

Taking over the national team's command is Xavi Hernandez, who has been unattached since leaving FC Barcelona in 2024. He has signed a contract extending until 2030. This move signifies the Spanish coach's first foray into international management, having previously only managed club sides.

'The Perfect Fit for the Future'

In a statement from the Dutch federation, Xavi articulated his strong affinity for Dutch football, referencing the influence of Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels during his time at FC Barcelona. He commented, "It's fair to say I'm a product of Dutch football." Nigel de Jong expressed his belief that Xavi is "the perfect fit for the coming years," highlighting his adoption of "an offensive, dominant, and exciting brand of football, coupled with the adaptability needed in today's game."

Xavi's first assignment as manager of the Oranje will be in the Nations League. He will face Germany at home on September 24th, followed by an away fixture against Serbia three days later, providing an immediate challenge to get acquainted with the team.