Past fits Xavi Hernández’s ambition to become Netherlands manager

At 16:28 today, former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández announced his desire to become the national team manager of the Netherlands in a conversation with RNE Deportes. He said the role matches the current phase of his life, making the timing "perfect" for him. "My next step is to become national team manager," Xavi told the interview. He added that the position would suit him because he has a family and a club job would limit the time he can spend with his young children. Last year, Xavi was linked to Ajax and the Moroccan national team, but he has now adjusted his ambitions toward the Netherlands job. The former midfielder clarified that his focus has shifted away from those earlier possibilities.

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He expressed strong motivation to be part of a World Cup, a European Championship and an Africa Cup, underscoring his desire to compete at the highest international levels. At Al‑Sadd in Qatar and later at FC Barcelona in Spain, Xavi served as head coach after playing for both clubs as a midfielder. In each country he won the league title and the domestic cup, adding to his résumé of success. After the World Cup, many national team positions will become available; both Uruguay and the Netherlands currently lack a national team manager. For the Netherlands, Arne Slot appears to be the clear favorite, highlighting the competitive landscape Xavi would enter.