Ruud van Nistelrooy to remain on Xavi's Netherlands coaching staff

Former Netherlands striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to remain with the national team under new head coach Xavi Hernandez. According to Dutch outlet Algemeen Dagblad, the KNVB is highly satisfied with his contributions during the 2026 World Cup and has retained him for the upcoming cycle.

Alongside van Nistelrooy, goalkeeping coach Lodewijks, who has been in the role since early 2023, will also continue his tenure. This move completes the domestic coaching structure surrounding the Spanish manager.

Xavi, who has committed to a long-term contract through to 2030, expressed pride in his appointment. He emphasized his deep connection to the Total Football philosophy, citing influences from Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels.

I feel a special connection with Dutch football. You could say that I am a bit of a son of Dutch football, with great managers like Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard playing an important role in shaping me. Xavi

The 46-year-old succeeds Ronald Koeman, who stepped down following a round-of-32 exit at the World Cup. Xavi becomes the 21st foreign manager in the history of the Netherlands team and the first since Ernst Happel in the late 1970s.

Xavi will make his official debut in the dugout on Thursday, September 24, when the Netherlands host Germany in a UEFA Nations League fixture at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Subsequent group matches against Serbia and Greece will follow to assess his tactical setup.