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Xavi Hernandez aims to revive Netherlands team and pledges a more dominating style

On Tuesday, the Royal Dutch Football Association appointed Xavi Hernández as head coach on a four-year deal through the 2030 World Cup, making him the first foreign manager to lead the Oranje in 48 years.
KNVB technical director Nigel de Jong confirmed Xavi was the federation's third choice after unsuccessful approaches to Pep Guardiola and Arne Slot, though his footballing philosophy aligned with the team's ambitions to play attractive, dominant football.
During his introductory press conference in Zeist, Xavi vowed to restore the 'total football' style, pledging to work with "passion, with ambition and with desire" to make the 18 million people in the Netherlands proud of the team.
Xavi faces an immediate test on September 24 in Amsterdam, where the Netherlands will host Germany in a Nations League clash pitting him against Jürgen Klopp in a high-profile managerial debut.
Squad composition remains uncertain as Xavi evaluates his options, with media reports suggesting senior players like Virgil van Dijk and Memphis Depay could face exclusion as the new coach implements his tactical identity.

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Xavi Hernández, a Selector From the Netherlands After Being the Federation's Third Choice: "At Least I'm on the Podium"

KNVB's elite football director Nigel de Jong explained that his main options were Pep Guardiola and Arne Slot.

2 hours ago·Madrid, Spain

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"Here To Win': Xavi Hernandez Vows To Restore Pride In Dutch Football

New Netherlands coach Xavi Hernandez vowed on Tuesday to bring back the attacking footballing philosophy that the Oranje are famous for, believing that this will bring the team out of the doldrums in terms of results.

7 hours ago·New Delhi, India

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