Xavi promises ‘intensity and passion’ in new-look Netherlands approach

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Xavi has promised to bring “intensity, passion and a good rhythm” to the Netherlands’ play as he prepares to take charge for the first time.

The Spaniard was named as the Oranje’s head coach on a four-year deal after Ronald Koeman left in the wake of a disappointing World Cup campaign over the summer.

While the Netherlands enjoyed an unbeaten group stage, they fell at the first hurdle in the knockouts, losing on penalties to Morocco.

Xavi, a former World Cup winner with Spain, will face Germany in his first game in charge in Amsterdam on Thursday, as the Netherlands kick off their Nations League campaign.

Koeman was criticised at times for taking a defensive approach with his tactics, and while Xavi did not give away too many hints about his approach, he outlined what he expects from his players on Monday.

“Everything is new ​for me and for the staff, so it will first be to get to know each other, ​know all the players, insist or convince them about our way to play,” Xavi told reporters.

“We don’t have too much time. But no excuses; every coach is in the same situation.

“I want to explain the values that ​we want from the squad. I want to show them that I’m open to them; I want ​to help them. I want to enjoy the process with them. We want to create a family; we want ‌to ⁠create a big group.

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 21, 2026

“The players must come to the national team with happiness, but at the end, the main goal is to win.

“You cannot promise results, but ​we will work ⁠for results. I can promise that we will play with intensity, with passion, with a good rhythm, trying to be competitive and trying to ​take the initiative in the game. This is for sure.

“There’s going ​to be ⁠a different way of playing. I don’t want to compare, and I don’t want to talk about the past. I respect Ronald a lot. But I’m focused on the present.”

Virgil van Dijk will remain the Netherlands’ captain, having revealed on Sunday that he plans to keep representing his national team until Euro 2028.

“It ​was a really good meeting,” Xavi said of meeting Van Dijk in Liverpool to discuss his Netherlands future.

“He was very honest. He has the capacity to continue. He’s a good leader. He’s positive, ​he’s motivated. He’s ready to be the leader.”

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