Guardiola and Slot topped Dutch shortlist before Xavi appointment

Netherlands director of football Nigel de Jong has revealed that Xavi Hernández was not the federation’s initial choice to replace Ronald Koeman. Speaking during the official presentation of the new head coach, de Jong explained that the KNVB first targeted Pep Guardiola, who declined the offer as he plans to take a sabbatical. Their second option was Arne Slot, but the former Liverpool manager preferred to continue working in club football rather than take charge of the national team.

With both candidates unavailable, the federation turned to Xavi, who accepted the role and now begins his first international coaching adventure. The former Barcelona boss will make his debut on 24 September at 20:45 CET, when the Netherlands face Germany in their opening UEFA Nations League fixture. Despite being third on the shortlist, Xavi arrives with strong backing from the KNVB and the expectation of guiding the Oranje into a new tactical era.