The UEFA has altered the promotion and relegation system for the Nations League to accommodate the change to a tournament format similar to the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League from the 2028/29 season. The Nations League will have three divisions instead of four, with three groups of six teams each. Each team will play six matches against different teams. The knockout phase will remain unchanged with a quarterfinal and a Final Four.
The current promotion and relegation system for the Nations League has been changed by the UEFA. The two worst teams from the fourth place in Division A will be relegated to Division B. The two best teams from the third place in Division A will be promoted directly. The two best teams from the fourth place and two worst teams from the third place in Division A will play off against the second-placed teams in Division B. The four group winners will still be promoted directly to Division A, resulting in a total of 18 teams.
The changes to the promotion and relegation system are necessary due to the current 16 teams in Division A, divided over four groups. The UEFA has made adjustments to the system to ensure a smooth transition to the new format for the 2028/29 season. The new format will see the Nations League continue in a tournament format, with three divisions and a knockout phase.
The Netherlands will begin the new edition of the Nations League with a home match against Germany on Thursday. The team will then face Greece and Serbia in Group 2 of Division A. The new coach, Xavi, will announce his first selection on Friday.