Netherlands boss Xavi relishing 'great challenge' against Klopp's Germany

Xavi described his first game in charge of the Netherlands as a "great challenge" as they prepare to welcome Germany and Jurgen Klopp to the Johan Cruijff Arena on Thursday. 

It is a meeting of two coaches making their debuts for the respective nations, with Xavi having replaced Ronald Koeman after another early exit at this summer's World Cup. 

The Netherlands were eliminated from the World Cup in the round of 32 on penalties by Morocco, the first time they had failed to reach the last 16 at the tournament. 

Xavi had been out of management since leaving Barcelona in 2024, having won LaLiga in 2022-23 and the Supercopa de Espana in the same season. 

He compiled 90 wins, 23 draws and 29 defeats in 142 games in charge of the Blaugrana across all competitions, giving him a win percentage of 62.7%.

Xavi is the first foreign coach of the Netherlands since Ernst Happel in 1977-1978, and he is looking forward to going head-to-head with former Liverpool boss Klopp. 

"We have to play our best football tomorrow because Germany are a great team," Xavi told reporters.

"I can feel this rivalry. Everyone in our team is really looking forward to the game, and it is a great way for us to start this journey. 

"He [Klopp] has been one of the best coaches in the world in recent years. It will be a great challenge for the whole team and for me personally.

"It is always the goal to win, but it is even more important to leave a good impression with the execution. I want the team to show passion, ambition, desire and our philosophy."

When he was unveiled, Xavi described himself as a "winner" and he was confident that his success as a player could be translated to the Netherlands' dugout. 

Xavi also believes the quality within the Netherlands' ranks can deliver what he intends to achieve. 

"They have the capacity to carry out what we ask of them. I have clearly seen that in the training sessions," Xavi added.

"They are hard workers and are open to listening. I am very happy with that. And I was impressed by the physical aspect, among other things."

The Netherlands also face back-to-back away games versus Serbia and Greece, and a home clash with Serbia on October 4 after they take on Germany. 

Memphis Depay, Wout Weghorst, Marten de Roon, Guus Til and injured midfielder Mats Wieffer are missing from Xavi's first Netherlands squad.

Ruben van Bommel and Gjivai Zechiel have been handed senior call-ups, while Jurrien Timber is also expected to feature throughout their four matches having struggled with a groin injury at the start of the campaign. 

"We are now focused on tomorrow, not on the rest of the matches. We are ready," Xavi said. 

"We have to be a bit careful with Jurrien Timber, who was injured for a long time. But he is available, that goes for everyone."