The Netherlands Looks to Xavi for a Fresh Start After World Cup Disappointment

Xavi Hernández is the new head coach of the Netherlands. The Dutch Football Association in Amsterdam announced the replacement for Ronald Koeman, who stepped down from the Oranje national team after the 2026 World Cup in North America, where the team was eliminated in the Round of 16 on penalty kicks against Morocco.

“Xavi Hernández has been named the new head coach of the Netherlands men’s national team. The 46-year-old Spanish coach takes over from Ronald Koeman. Xavi has reached an agreement with the KNVB on a contract that will keep him with the team through the 2030 FIFA World Cup,” reads the statement released on social media.

Xavi, who was linked to several clubs this summer—including Milan—returns to the bench for the first time since leaving Barcelona. As coach of the Blaugrana, he won one league title and one Spanish Super Cup.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic had harshly criticized Koeman on Fox Sports after the Netherlands’ elimination: “This defeat is Koeman’s responsibility. I didn’t recognize the Netherlands I admire. He lost by playing a style of soccer that has nothing to do with the Oranje’s identity.” The Swede went even further, bringing up an uncomfortable comparison: “I consider him completely inadequate. Today, Koeman looked like an Italian coach, playing not to lose, while the Netherlands always plays to win.”