Xavi makes contact with Virgil van Dijk ahead of debut against Jurgen Klopp

New Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez has wasted no time asserting his authority by establishing immediate contact with the squad's senior figures. The Spanish tactician has identified Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as an indispensable pillar for the Oranje, marking him as a key focus in the early stages of his tenure.

Xavi has already initiated discussions with the leadership group to monitor players and establish his core foundations. He emphasized the importance of understanding the defender's mindset, personal drive, and competitive hunger under the newly established regime.

I spoke to him. I will be in touch with him. I want to talk more about what is his ambition, his passion. And let's see. But I need to talk to him. Xavi Hernandez

Xavi will not be afforded a gentle bedding-in period, as his first international fixture brings a blockbuster clash against Germany, a side now led by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. Rather than shying away from the assignment, the former Barcelona boss has embraced the magnitude of facing one of Europe's elite nations immediately.

The Netherlands will face their rivals Germany in the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League in Amsterdam on September 24. This match marks the official debuts for both Xavi and Klopp as national team managers. With this challenge looming, Xavi remains confident that by securing open communication lines with leaders like Van Dijk, his squad will be fully prepared for the high-stakes fixture.