Xavi Backs Lamine Yamal for Ballon d'Or, Reflects on Barcelona Legacy and Netherlands Debut
Newly appointed Netherlands coach Xavi Hernandez has expressed strong support for Barcelona young talent Lamine Yamal, predicting that the 19-year-old star will claim this year's Ballon d'Or. Speaking from the KNVB headquarters in Zeist before his first match managing the Dutch side against Germany, Xavi hailed Yamal as a once-in-a-generation player.
While recognizing Lionel Messi’s impressive World Cup performance, Xavi emphasized that Spain’s World Cup winners deserve significant credit. He remains confident that Yamal will soon dominate the global football scene.
Pride in Barcelona Academy Contributions
Reflecting on his time at Camp Nou, Xavi shared pride in nurturing talents like Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, and Pau Cubarsi who have risen to world champion status. He recalled stabilizing Barcelona during one of its toughest financial periods over the past 25 years.
"We did our bit to help this generation achieve things. If we contributed to the club’s recovery during practically the worst period in its history, we are already happy," said the 46-year-old. "Lamine is special, he’s different, he’s 19, and he’ll undoubtedly win it, but this would be a good year for him to win it now."
Xavi also praised current Barcelona manager Hansi Flick for maintaining the club’s upward momentum.
Shared Football Philosophy Guides Dutch Project
Turning to his new role with the Netherlands, Xavi highlighted the strong tactical similarities between Dutch football and Barcelona’s traditional positional style. Settling into the KNVB complex has been smooth, with staff and players embracing daily cycling commutes to training sessions.
"We have many connections with this country at a footballing level," Xavi explained. "People want to see attacking, they want positional play—the same philosophy we have in Barcelona. I feel this connection."
High-Stakes UEFA Nations League Opener
Xavi's managerial stint starts with a high-profile Nations League clash against Jurgen Klopp’s Germany at Amsterdam’s Johan Cruyff Arena. Despite key absences including injured Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons, he remains optimistic about his squad’s strength.
The Netherlands face a demanding schedule in their group, including upcoming matches versus Serbia and Greece. Xavi aims to immediately imprint his tactical vision on home turf.
- Event: UEFA Nations League A
- Match: Netherlands vs Germany
- Date: 24 Sept 2026, 21:45
- Venue: Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam
- Upcoming fixtures: Serbia, Greece
Also upcoming in La Liga, Barcelona will visit Getafe on 10 October 2026 at 19:30.
