Xavi is the new head coach of the Netherlands national team and is immediately setting a new course. The Spaniard made clear during his presentation that he wants to bring Oranje back to adventurous football, with a system of four or three defenders instead of five.
The team currently sits first in their World Cup qualifying group with seven points from three matches, two points clear of Japan. They are unbeaten in their last five internationals. The first real test under Xavi comes on September 24 against Germany, a match you can find on our fixtures page.
What style of play will Xavi introduce?
Xavi stated he does not want to play with five defenders. His preference is for a 4-3-3 or a 3-4-3 formation. This marks a fundamental change in the approach of the Dutch side, which according to Martijn Krabbendam, an Oranje watcher for Voetbal International, has endured years of meager performances at European Championships and World Cups. "Well, I do think we can dominate against Greece and Serbia, but against top countries… Germany becomes an immediate first test," Krabbendam told DVHN.
The new coach surprised with his good English and knowledge of some Dutch words during his introduction. That language skill could be important for public support. Xavi's previous stint as Barcelona coach was not seen as sparkling in Spain, though he did bring through young talent.
Who could lose their place in the squad?
The system change could have major consequences for some experienced internationals. Marc van Meel, a former northern amateur coach, suggests Memphis Depay and Virgil van Dijk could lose their spots as a result. "That means, as far as I'm concerned, with all due respect of course, that there is no longer a place for Memphis and Van Dijk." Memphis does not fit the role of first defender required by the system, while Van Dijk is considered vulnerable with a lot of space behind him.
Instead, Xavi could opt for a generational shift with younger players. Names in circulation include Ruben van Bommel, Sean Steur, Kees Smit, Valente, Read, Zechiël, Crysencio Summerville and Brian Brobbey. Teun Koopmeiners and Nathan Aké are seen as players who will retain their places. The new coach's first squad selection is therefore awaited with great interest.
What is the current state of the Netherlands team?
The Netherlands has made a strong start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. They have scored ten goals and conceded four, giving them a goal difference of plus six. Their last result was a 1-1 draw against Morocco on June 30. The full table can be seen on our standings page.
The squad is dealing with injuries. Both Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons are currently unfit. This reinforces the perception that the Netherlands lacks a midfield of sufficient quality. Patience will therefore be needed with Xavi's adjustments. The coach inherits a team that gets results, but whose play has failed to convince for years.
Why was a foreigner appointed?
The appointment of a foreign head coach is notable for the Netherlands. There is reported disappointment that a Dutchman was not found to represent Dutch football culture. The approach of director of football De Jong towards a candidate like Bosz is criticized. Michael Reiziger was considered, but it was thought too early for him.
The historical connection between the Netherlands and Barcelona now appears one-sided, according to Juanma Mártir Sánchez, an FC Barcelona fan and dentist in Drenthe. In Spain, no one thinks about that connection anymore. Xavi must now impose his own stamp on a team that longs for dominance, but which still needs to take steps against the absolute top nations. The upcoming matches against Greece and Serbia offer chances to bed in the new system, before the real work begins.
