Wesley Sneijder questions Dutch FA over Xavi’s coaching licences

Wesley Sneijder has criticised the Royal Dutch Football Association’s handling of coaching qualifications after the appointment of Xavi Hernandez as manager of the Netherlands.

The former Inter Milan midfielder said Xavi had obtained his A, B and Pro coaching licences in just four weeks, and questioned how that could be reconciled with the requirements previously applied by the Dutch football authorities.

“Xavi obtained his A, B and Pro coaching licences within four weeks,” Sneijder said, in comments reported by French website Foot Mercato.

“I find it very strange that they would choose a coach who does not even meet the requirements of the Royal Dutch Football Association itself.”

Sneijder said the association had previously told him that he would need to complete a training programme lasting several years. He added that he had been informed that it was no longer possible to accelerate the licensing process because of regulations set by UEFA.

The former Netherlands international stressed that his criticism was not aimed at Xavi’s coaching ability. Instead, he said he objected to what he viewed as inconsistent treatment of coaches seeking their qualifications.

Sneijder’s own coaching career stopped in 2021 after a disagreement with the association over his request for more tailored support for former players with significant experience.

“I wish Xavi, and the Royal Dutch Football Association, the same success, but I find it strange,” he said.

Sneijder also rejected the explanation that UEFA rules were responsible for the process.

“They say: ‘The decision comes from UEFA’ that is not true,” he added.

Xavi’s appointment has therefore reopened the debate in the Netherlands about the standards required for coaching licences and whether those rules are being applied consistently to different coaches.