Alejandro Hernández Hernández to oversee Xavi's Netherlands debut
Xavi Hernández will make his debut this Thursday as manager of the Netherlands national team against Germany at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam. UEFA has appointed the Spanish Alejandro Hernández Hernández as the head referee, making the day a key moment for the Spanish coach.
The announcement was made by journalist Ramón Fuentes, contributor to Madrid Mañana, who highlighted the importance of the match for Xavi Hernández's career.
Spanish referee appointed by UEFA
Alejandro Hernández Hernández will be the central referee for the match. He will be assisted by José Enrique Naranjo and Diego Sánchez Rojo, who were already present at the World Cup fixture, while Carlos del Cerro will operate in the VAR room. Alejandro Quintero will serve as the fourth official and Javier Iglesias Villanueva as the AVAR.
Referee's previous experience with the Netherlands
It will be the third time that Alejandro Hernández Hernández is in charge of a Netherlands national team match, having won the two previous encounters. The last victory came in October 2023, when the Netherlands beat Greece 0‑1 in the Euro qualifying stage.
Dutch applaud Xavi Hernández's arrival with
The Canary Islands official has also refereed the senior Germany national team for the first time, although he has already overseen two Germany Under‑21 matches with wins and three Under‑19 matches, achieving one victory and two defeats.
Xavi Hernández will arrive accompanied by his two assistants José Enrique Naranjo and Diego Sánchez Rojo, who already supported him at the recent World Cup fixture. In the VAR room, the Madrid native Carlos del Cerro will also be present, reinforcing the Spanish presence in the match. It is an honour to be part of the Dutch technical project.
Alejandro Hernández Hernández has represented Spanish football at the recent World Cup held in the United States, Mexico and Canada, underscoring his international recognition.
Controversial Nmecha strike fuels doubts over Xavi's debut for the Netherlands
The clash will be played this Thursday and will mark the start of Xavi's tenure at the helm of the Netherlands national team, offering a first test of his project against a strong Germany.