Cruyff's son returns to his roots: Xavi appointed Netherlands coach until 2030

European football has a new intrigue. The Dutch Football Association have appointed Spain's Xavi Hernandez as technical director of the Netherlands national team.

The 46-year-old Barcelona legend replaces Ronald Koeman, having struck a deal with the Dutch Football Association that runs until the 2030 World Cup finals.

Xavi wasted no time in laying out what the job means to him. "It is a great honour to become manager of the Netherlands national team. As a graduate of Barcelona's academy, and deeply influenced by figures such as Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels, I feel a special connection to Dutch football," he said after signing.

The former Spain star and former Barcelona manager went further. "You could say that, in a way, I am a son of Dutch football."

His arrival opens a new chapter for the Netherlands. The Dutch Football Association are banking on a philosophy rooted in Total Football to carry the Oranje back onto the podium.