Xavi, a 46-year-old Spaniard, was previously considered as the potential successor to Ronald Koeman at FC Barcelona in November 2021. His involvement in the KNVB's search for a new coach adds an interesting dynamic, given his past experience as a trainer at FC Barcelona. VoetbalPrimeur reports that Xavi is a 'pikante kandidaat' (a striking candidate) due to his past connection with Koeman at FC Barcelona.
The KNVB has also spoken with Roberto Martinez, another Spaniard, about the position of coach. Martinez's involvement in the search process suggests that the KNVB is considering a range of candidates for the role. The KNVB is expected to make a decision about the new coach soon, with De Telegraaf suggesting that 'snel witte rook verwacht' (white smoke is expected soon).