Netherlands in talks with Xavi Hernandez over Ronald Koeman successor role

The Dutch Football Association has opened talks with former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez about becoming the next head coach of the Netherlands, according to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

Xavi is understood to be one of the leading candidates being considered for the position after Ronald Koeman resigned following the Netherlands’ elimination from the World Cup.

Initial discussions between the relevant parties have already taken place, De Telegraaf reported. Although other names are also being assessed as part of the search, Xavi remains a serious option for the Dutch football authorities.

Koeman’s departure came after the Netherlands were knocked out by Morocco in the last 32 of the World Cup. He subsequently announced through his personal Instagram account that he was stepping down as manager of the national team.

The Dutch Football Association is now considering how to replace Koeman, who had been in charge of the Netherlands before his resignation. Xavi’s name has emerged prominently during that process, with the former Barcelona coach involved in early talks over the vacancy.

The report does not indicate that an agreement has been reached, and Xavi is not the only manager under consideration. However, the discussions already held show that he is being treated as a serious candidate for the role.

Xavi, a former Barcelona manager, is therefore among the options being examined as the Netherlands begin the process of appointing a new head coach. The Dutch side are searching for a successor to Koeman after his decision to leave in the aftermath of their World Cup exit.

Koeman confirmed his decision to depart via Instagram after the defeat by Morocco. His resignation ended his time as head coach of the Netherlands and prompted the Dutch Football Association to begin looking at possible replacements.

De Telegraaf’s report places Xavi at the centre of those discussions, while also stressing that the process remains open and that several other candidates are being reviewed. For now, the talks with the Spanish coach are at an initial stage, with no appointment yet confirmed.

FilGoal reported the developments on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.