Netherlands national team coach Xavi is conducting a fresh audition for his squad, implementing strict position-specific demands. This was reported on 29 August 2026 by football reporter Maarten Wijffels of AD Sport, as Oranje leads their World Cup qualifying group unbeaten.
Xavi's side currently sits first in World Cup qualifying with 7 points from three matches, following two wins and a draw. Their recent form is strong, with four victories and one draw in the last five outings. The last result was a 1-1 draw with Morocco on June 30, bringing the season's goal tally to 10 for and 4 against (+6). The next major test is a home fixture against Germany on September 24, a match fans can find on our fixtures page.
What does Xavi demand from his defenders?
For defensive positions, Xavi has established clear and demanding guidelines. He seeks players who are not only solid in defence but can also initiate build-up play from the back with precision and confidence. The audition under the new national coach means every player, regardless of reputation, must prove anew that they meet these specific conditions. This process was captured in a photograph featuring Luciano Valente, Ruben van Bommel, Virgil van Dijk, Tijjani Reijnders, and Jorrel Hato alongside the coach himself.
The emphasis is on tactical discipline and the ability to make the right decisions under pressure. Xavi expects his defenders to be an integral part of the attacking play, which could signify a fundamental shift in Oranje's style. The full overview of players eligible for selection is available on the KNVB's squad page.
How does the audition work for midfielders and attackers?
Detailed criteria also apply for the midfield and forward lines. Xavi, who previously received a message from former coach Louis van Gaal, wants players who constantly create movement and passing lanes. The ability to quickly transition between defence and attack is paramount. The audition is not a one-off event but an ongoing evaluation process taking place during training and matches.
This stringent selection policy comes at a time when the Netherlands is showing a strong run of results. The team is unbeaten in five matches, a run that started after their last defeat. This consistency at the highest level is precisely what Xavi aims to maintain and strengthen with his new approach. The statistics behind this run can be followed on our stats page.
Why is this approach important for World Cup qualification?
The timing of Xavi's renewed focus on selection criteria is no coincidence. With a crucial qualifier against Germany approaching, it is vital that every player in the squad fits perfectly within the tactical plan. The current first-place position in the group, with a +6 goal difference, offers some breathing room, but competition remains fierce.
The audition under Xavi fosters healthy competition within the squad and allows the national coach to assemble the best possible group for the crucial phase of qualification. It ensures performances at club level translate into a national team place based on objective, position-specific benchmarks. The current qualifying group standings are always up-to-date on our standings page.
The coming weeks will reveal which players best fit Xavi's vision. The focus is now fully on preparing for the clash with Germany, a match that could be a key indicator of the strength of this new approach within the Netherlands setup.
