Xavi Outlines Attacking Vision After Taking Netherlands Job

Xavi Hernandez has outlined an attack-minded plan for the Netherlands after taking charge of the national team. The Guardian reported from his presentation in Zeist on Tuesday that the former Barcelona coach wants his side to control matches with the ball while showing passion, ambition and a willingness to take the initiative.

Watch the highlights:

The 46-year-old described his new role as a return to what he called the "university of football," reflecting the Dutch influence on his career. Xavi developed at Barcelona's La Masia academy and made his first-team debut under Louis van Gaal before playing for Frank Rijkaard and Pep Guardiola. The football associated with Rinus Michels and Johan Cruyff also shaped Barcelona's identity during his development.

Xavi said his first priority is to help the players and enjoy the process while building toward winning. He also recalled personal meetings with Cruyff late in the Dutch great's life and pointed to Cruyff's positivity as an example he wants to carry into the Netherlands setup.

His tactical preferences are clear but not tied to one formation. Xavi identified 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 and 3-4-3 as possible systems, explaining that each could support his aim of dominating play. He rejected the suggestion that a five-defender setup would be his preferred approach, though his comments left room to adapt within an attacking framework.

Selection will be based on performances rather than the league in which a player competes, according to Xavi. That position could affect Tijjani Reijnders, who moved from Manchester City to Saudi club Al-Qadsiah last week. Xavi said players based in Saudi Arabia, the Eredivisie, the Premier League and La Liga would all be considered. He has already spoken with Frenkie de Jong, whom he coached at Barcelona, and captain Virgil van Dijk.

The Guardian also reported that KNVB elite football director Nigel de Jong first approached Guardiola, who did not want a new job in the near future, and then held talks with Arne Slot, who chose to remain in club management. De Jong later met Xavi in Amsterdam with KNVB supervisory board member Clarence Seedorf. The federation announced Xavi's appointment on August 12.

Xavi's first match in charge is scheduled to be a Nations League fixture against Germany in Amsterdam on September 24. He said he was excited by the prospect of facing one of Europe's leading national teams and a Germany side beginning its own new chapter under Jurgen Klopp.