Sporting director De Jong confirms: Xavi was only third choice

In July 2010, Xavi Hernandez and Nigel de Jong still faced each other in the World Cup final.

The former Barca playmaker won the title with Spain, while de Jong caused a stir with his brutal kung-fu kick against Xabi Alonso. 16 years later, the two sit side-by-side at a press conference for the Dutch national team.

Xavi is introduced as the new national team coach, with de Jong present as sporting director of "Oranje". And the latter certainly raises eyebrows: "Our first choice (to succeed Ronald Koeman, ed.) was Pep Guardiola. Our second choice was Arne Slot. So we moved on to the third candidate, the man next to me, Xavi."

Guardiola is taking a break after many years at Man City, while Slot prefers to continue working in club football.

Xavi reacts calmly

Still at the press conference, Xavi is asked about de Jong's statements. He replies: "I don't care if I'm the third or the tenth choice. I'm honoured to be coach of the Netherlands."

The former world-class player also had to explain how to pronounce his name. "Xavi, like Chocolate," he says with a smile.

The Spaniard will celebrate his debut as the Dutch national team coach on September 24 in the UEFA Nations League against Germany.