Spanish football icon Xavi Hernandez was named the new head coach of the Netherlands on Wednesday, becoming the first foreign manager to lead the Dutch national team in nearly five decades.

Xavi, who featured for the Spain side that defeated the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final, takes charge following the departure of Ronald Koeman. The 46-year-old had been without a managerial role since stepping down as Barcelona manager in May 2024. He has agreed to a contract running through to the 2030 World Cup.