Xavi Hernandez has officially taken charge of the Netherlands and made it clear that his position in the coaching selection process does not concern him. The former Barcelona manager was reportedly third on the KNVB shortlist behind Pep Guardiola and Arne Slot, both of whom turned down the opportunity. Xavi instead sees the appointment as an exciting new chapter after more than two years away from management.

The 46-year-old replaces Ronald Koeman and arrives with the task of refreshing a Netherlands side that struggled to impress at the World Cup. His football philosophy has been heavily influenced by Dutch coaching traditions, particularly the ideas associated with Johan Cruyff. Having worked under Dutch coaches during his playing career, Xavi now aims to bring those principles into the national team setup.

Xavi wants the Netherlands to become a team that controls matches through possession, takes the initiative and plays with greater intensity and ambition. His track record provides plenty of reason for optimism, having helped Barcelona win 25 major trophies as a player and playing an important role in Spain's golden era, which included the 2010 World Cup and European Championships in 2008 and 2012.

His first major challenge will come on September 24 in Amsterdam against Germany, led by new head coach Jürgen Klopp. The fixture offers an immediate test of Xavi's plans against one of Europe's strongest teams. With a fresh approach and a determination to restore pride in the national side, he will begin his Netherlands tenure under significant expectations.