Xavi Hernandez to coach the Netherlands through 2030 World Cup
He replaces Ronald Koeman after the Netherlands were knocked out by Maroko in the 2026 World Cup round of 32.
Xavi Hernandez has been named the new head coach of the Netherlands national team on a contract through the 2030 World Cup. The KNVB appointed the former Barcelona coach to replace Ronald Koeman, who stepped down after the Netherlands lost to Maroko in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. It is Xavi's first job since leaving Barcelona in 2024. In a statement, Xavi called the appointment a great honor and said Dutch soccer is close to his ideas: attacking, possession-based, creative and convincing. Xavi replaced Koeman at Barcelona in 2021 and led the club to the 2022/23 La Liga title. He began his coaching career at Al Sadd, Qatar.