The Dutch decide to appoint Xavi over Martinez
The Netherlands went a long time without a manager following Ronald Koeman’s departure. It wasn’t exactly a case of coaches fighting over the job; the Netherlands have struggled for consistent results at senior level for some time, while their pool of high-profile domestic coaches is hardly overflowing, which is why they have tended to fall back on the older generation, such as Ronald Koeman and Louis van Gaal. Still, few expected the Netherlands, after being turned down by Arne Slot, Erik ten Hag and Peter Bosz, to appoint a foreign manager for the first time since 1978, when Ernst Happel was in charge. The Dutch FA has announced the appointment of Xavi Hernandez. They have even given him a long-term contract running until 2030.We proudly present our new head coach. 🇳🇱⁰⁰Welcome, Xavi Hernández! 🧡#NothingLikeOranje #Xavi2030 pic.twitter.com/9aOpc9J53S— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) August 12, 2026 The Spaniard has been without a job since May 2024, when he left Barcelona, having won the 2022/..