Xavi takes charge of the Netherlands with attacking football as his philosophy

ZEIST – Xavi Hernández has been presented as the new Netherlands coach and made clear that his goal is to win trophies while playing attacking football. The 46-year-old said a five-man defense does not fit his philosophy and that he prefers systems such as 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-3.

Xavi wants the team to dominate matches, keep possession and take the initiative. “We want to play good football, with the ball. Then the results will come,” he said.

He believes strongly in the talent available and wants to build a united team. Xavi also said he will not rule out players competing in Saudi Arabia as long as they perform well.

He has already spoken with Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong, calling De Jong a fundamental player for his style of football.