Tottenham star Xavi Simons welcomes namesake Xavi Hernandez as new Netherlands head coach
Tottenham's Xavi Simons has expressed his excitement after Xavi Hernandez was appointed as the new Netherlands manager, citing the Spaniard as the inspiration for his own name.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: Doha Stadium Plus Qatar
Tottenham midfielder Xavi Simons has officially welcomed Xavi Hernandez as the new head coach of the Netherlands national team. The appointment holds personal significance for the young Dutch international, as his parents named him after the legendary Spanish midfielder.
Taking to social media, Simons shared a nostalgic photo from his childhood at La Masia, posing with the man who would eventually become his international manager. "The name that inspired my name. Welcome to Holland, mister Xavi Hernández!" the midfielder wrote.
The arrival of the 46-year-old Spaniard marks a pivotal shift for the Oranje. The Dutch FA (KNVB) has handed Hernandez a long-term contract with the goal of returning to a proactive, possession-based style of football that aligns with the nation's historical identity.
To maintain stability during this transition, the KNVB has confirmed that Ruud van Nistelrooy will be retained as part of the backroom staff. His presence is intended to bridge the gap between the previous era under Ronald Koeman and the new tactical approach. Goalkeeping coach Patrick Lodewijks will also remain in his role.
Hernandez faces immediate pressure as the first foreign manager to lead the Netherlands since the late 1970s. His first major test will arrive in September, when the Dutch side faces Germany at the Johan Cruyff Arena for their Nations League opener, followed by group stage matches against Serbia and Greece.