Xavi demands width and faster football before Netherlands Nations League tests

Xavi Hernandez says his first week as Netherlands manager has been encouraging but insufficient, with the former Barcelona and Spain midfielder demanding a more effective and aggressive attacking approach before the team’s next two UEFA Nations League matches.

The new coach was pleased with the atmosphere in the Netherlands camp and the points collected, but believes his side must improve after a slow start against Germany. The Netherlands were held to a late draw in Amsterdam on Thursday after sustained attacking pressure helped them find a way back into the match.

“The most important thing is always to take three points, and I am happy that we managed to do that,” Xavi said in comments carried by Reuters. “But we need to perform better, especially in the first half, when we did not press enough. Even so, I am completely satisfied after a week of hard work.”

Xavi, a World Cup winner with Spain, also praised a new attacking option who has quickly made an impression. Mexx Meerdink, the AZ Alkmaar striker, came off the bench for his Netherlands debut against Germany before making his first start for the senior side against Serbia.

The 21-year-old responded by scoring twice as the Netherlands secured victory over Serbia.

“Mexx is an extremely hard-working player and he understands our way of playing perfectly,” Xavi said. “He contributed to the team with more than just his goals, although those goals were undoubtedly valuable. His performance for the team was excellent.”

The Netherlands now face two important fixtures, travelling to Greece in Thessaloniki on Thursday before hosting Serbia in Eindhoven on Sunday.

Xavi has identified several areas for improvement ahead of those games, including the way his team uses space in attack.

“For example, there were many moments when we needed to exploit the spaces, but we did not do so,” he said. “That is something we need to improve, along with other aspects such as making the pitch wider and moving the ball more quickly.”

Despite those concerns, Xavi remains confident that the Netherlands are developing in the right direction. He believes the number of chances being created and the players’ comfort with his tactics provide a strong foundation.

“But the most important thing is that we are creating a lot of chances,” he added. “The players feel comfortable on the pitch with the system we are playing, so many things are going well.”