Xavi Sets Attacking Blueprint as Netherlands Era Begins

Xavi Hernandez has set out an attacking vision for the Netherlands after being presented as the national team's new head coach. The former Barcelona midfielder said he wants his side to control matches with the ball and play with passion, desire and ambition, according to The Guardian's report from his introductory news conference in Zeist on Tuesday.

Watch the highlights:

The 46-year-old described Dutch football as an important influence throughout his career. Barcelona's academy and first team were shaped by ideas associated with Rinus Michels and Johan Cruyff, while Xavi played under Dutch coaches Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard. He also spoke warmly about meetings with Cruyff late in the Dutch great's life and said he wanted his players to enjoy the process of trying to win.

Xavi indicated that formations such as 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3 fit his preference for taking the initiative. He rejected the suggestion that a five-defender system would be his starting idea. The Guardian also reported that he has already spoken with midfielder Frenkie de Jong, whom he coached at Barcelona, and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk.

Selection will be based on performance rather than the league in which a player competes, Xavi said. That position could keep the door open for players in the Saudi Pro League as well as those in the Eredivisie, Premier League and La Liga. The issue has added relevance after Tijjani Reijnders' recent move from Manchester City to Al-Qadsiah.

Nigel de Jong, the Dutch federation's director of elite football, disclosed that the recruitment process also involved initial approaches to Pep Guardiola and Arne Slot. Guardiola did not want another job in the near future, while Slot opted to remain in club management. Michael Reiziger, the Netherlands under-21 coach, was considered before the KNVB announced Xavi's appointment on August 12. Xavi said he was unconcerned about where he stood in the process and regarded the role as a major honour.

The new coach's first assignment is a Nations League match against Germany in Amsterdam on September 24. Germany will also have a new coach in Jurgen Klopp, giving Xavi an immediate test against an opponent and manager he described as being among Europe's best. Ruud van Nistelrooy is part of Xavi's staff as the Netherlands begin a four-year cycle built around a renewed commitment to proactive football.