“We are here to win”: Determined new Oranje boss Xavi faces Dutch media for the first time | OneFootball

The Netherlands have got their man in Xavi Hernandez. This much was announced back on the 12th of August, but now, around two weeks later, the Spanish legend faced the Dutch media for the very first time.

The first order of business? Address his new employers and explain what fans can expect from a team under his tenure.

“I have many connections with this country. My feeling today is that I am going to the university of football. I have learned a lot as a player and coach. The most important thing for me is to forge a team and a family. We want to dominate matches, take the initiative on the ball, and at the same time be a team with passion and ambition. We want to compete, enjoy ourselves, and win. I repeat: we are here to win.”

“I understand that I am a foreigner, but I have learned a lot from Dutch football. I want to help all the players and staff. I feel the pressure, but I love that. I am a winner. I have shown that as a player and coach. I am ready.”

The next key topic for the new man at Oranje’s helm was in regard to the squad’s veterans. How will he approach the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Memphis Depay?

“We are going to talk to players. Especially the captains. They are an important part of our team. I have already been in contact with them. We have to monitor and follow all the players. That is part of my job. And I am already enjoying it.”

So, what of the team’s structure and technical outlook? More Cruyffian than Ronald Koeman and Louis van Gaal? Or will he subscribe to their use of a five at the back?

“We want to start playing in a different system: 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, or 3-4-3. As far as I am concerned, you can dominate more in football in those systems than in others. That is how I see it.”

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield