Xavi Hernandez appointed Netherlands head coach through 2030

09:45

By: Sahili Aya

Xavi Hernandez appointed Netherlands head coach through 2030

Xavi Hernandez has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands national team, taking over from Ronald Koeman following the Dutch side's disappointing campaign at the 2026 World Cup.

The appointment was announced Wednesday by the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB), marking a new chapter in the coaching career of the former Barcelona midfielder and Spain international.

Xavi takes over after Koeman's departure

The 46-year-old coach has agreed to remain in charge through the 2030 World Cup, which will be hosted primarily by Spain, Portugal and Morocco, alongside three matches scheduled to take place in Latin America.

Xavi arrives with significant experience at club level, most notably from his spell at FC Barcelona, where he guided the Catalan side to the Spanish league title in 2023.

His appointment represents a major change of direction for the Netherlands as the federation looks to build a new cycle around a coach with both international playing experience and a strong reputation for possession-based football.

Koeman leaves after World Cup elimination

Xavi succeeds Ronald Koeman, who stepped down after the Netherlands were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup.

The Dutch campaign ended in the round of 32 against Morocco, with the match finishing 1-1 before Morocco prevailed 3-2 on penalties.

Koeman's departure opened the door for the KNVB to seek a new figure capable of guiding the national team toward the next World Cup cycle.

A long-term project toward 2030

Xavi's contract gives him a clear long-term objective: develop the Netherlands into a competitive side ahead of the 2030 tournament.

The appointment also gives him several years to establish his tactical identity, integrate younger players and reshape the squad following the disappointment of the 2026 World Cup.

For the former Barcelona coach, the Netherlands job represents his first major international management position and a new test after his years in club football.