Van Bronckhorst: No one expected Xavi to coach Netherlands, we should give him trust

Published Aug 15, 02:32 AM UTC

Former Barcelona player and current Feyenoord head coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst expressed surprise at Xavi's appointment as head coach of the Netherlands national team, stating that no one anticipated the Dutch Football Association's choice. Van Bronckhorst, who played alongside Xavi for four seasons at Barcelona, noted that even within Dutch football circles, the appointment of a foreign coach was unexpected given the country's tradition of local coaches. Despite the surprise, van Bronckhorst revealed he has maintained close contact with Xavi, who is happy and honored to take on the role. He highlighted Xavi's focus on team balance, attack-defense coordination, and player positioning as qualities that translate to coaching. Van Bronckhorst also linked the appointment to the deep historical connection between Dutch football and Barcelona, citing influences from Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels, Louis van Gaal, and Frank Rijkaard, and urged trust in Xavi's ability to succeed.