Xavi appointed manager of Netherlands men's soccer team on 2030 contract
The Dutch football federation named former Barcelona star Xavi as head coach of the men’s national side, signing him through 2030.
On August 12, the Netherlands announced that Xavi will become the new manager of the men’s national football team, with a contract extending to 2030. The 46-year-old, a former Barcelona midfielder, previously managed Al Sadd in Qatar and returned to coach Barcelona, winning the 2022-23 La Liga title and the 2023 Spanish Super Cup. This appointment marks the second occasion Xavi replaces Ronald Koeman in the Dutch role.
Prior candidates included Roberto Hernandez, who most recently led Portugal, and Dutch coach Arne Slot, who chose to stay in club football. Xavi inherits a side that fell to Morocco on penalties after a tough group at the 2026 World Cup, and his debut will come in a September Nations League tie with Germany, with Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup as future targets.
Why it matters
A high-profile coach takes over the Dutch team, influencing its future performance in major tournaments.
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