# Xavi named Netherlands coach, first foreign boss since 1978

2026-08-13T02:54:53+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 3 independent outlets

Xavi Hernandez has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands national team, the Dutch football federation announced on Wednesday. The 46-year-old Spaniard becomes the first foreign-born coach since Austria's Ernst Happel in 1978. He signed a four-year deal that will cover the Euro 2028 and 2030 World Cup campaigns. Xavi replaces Ronald Koeman, who left after the Netherlands lost to Morocco on penalties in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup. Xavi has been out of coaching since leaving Barcelona in 2024. His first match in charge will be a Nations League clash against Germany on September 24. The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder said he feels a 'special connection to Dutch football'.

## Coverage

- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/sports/football/barcelona-great-xavi-returns-to-coaching-named-first-foreign-netherlands-coach-since-1978-101786583938817.html>
- sportstar.thehindu.com <https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/international-football/netherlands-new-manager-xavi-hernandez-koeman-replacement-latest-news/article71339349.ece>
- thehindu.com <https://www.thehindu.com/sport/football/netherlands-hires-spain-great-xavi-hernandez-as-first-foreign-born-coach-since-1978/article71339352.ece>

Tags: foreign coach, Nations League, Netherlands football, Ronald Koeman, World Cup, Xavi Hernandez
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