Netherlands technical director Nigel de Jong has revealed that Xavi Hernandez was the third candidate considered to replace Ronald Koeman as head coach of the national team.
According to De Jong, the Dutch football authorities initially approached Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as their preferred option. However, Guardiola reportedly wanted to take a year away from football and was therefore unavailable.
The Netherlands then turned their attention to Liverpool boss Arne Slot, but the Dutchman opted to remain involved in club football.
“Our first candidate to replace Ronald Koeman was Pep Guardiola, but he wanted to take a year off,” De Jong said.
“Our second candidate was Arne Slot, but he preferred to stay active in club football. Then we moved on to the third candidate, the man next to me, Xavi Hernandez.”
The revelation highlights the high-profile names considered by the Netherlands before settling on Xavi, who brings extensive experience from his playing and managerial career.
Xavi enjoyed a highly decorated playing career with Barcelona and Spain before moving into management. His appointment would represent a significant change in direction for the Netherlands as they look to build for the future.
De Jong’s comments also underline the calibre of coaches the Dutch federation considered before eventually turning to Xavi, with Guardiola and Slot both declining the opportunity for different reasons.
