Xavi begins Netherlands adventure under mourning for Bartina Koeman
The death of Bartina Koeman, the 65‑year‑old wife of former Dutch national team coach Ronald Koeman, has shaken the country and the national team. The new national team coach Xavi Hernández has adjusted the preparation for the Nations League clash against Germany: the press conference and the final training session were postponed to allow long‑time staff members of the Koeman environment to attend the funeral.
Memorial service and preparation of the Oranje
On Wednesday a large group of prominent personalities traveled to Laren to attend the memorial service for Bartina Koeman. Among those present were John de Mol, Marco van Basten, Frenkie de Jong, Memphis Depay, Joan Laporta and Jordi Cruijff. The sympathy was especially evident for the Koemans, who were supported by the many guests.
Because of the mourning, the press conference and the final training of the Oranje team that had been scheduled for Wednesday were moved to Thursday, so that long‑time staff members of the Koeman environment could attend the funeral. Xavi Hernández used the opportunity to speak with the media and emphasized that the team must remain focused despite the circumstances. The training eventually took place in Amsterdam.
Nations League clash against Germany
Virgil van Dijk remains captain of the eleven, while record scorer Memphis Depay did not appear in the squad. Xavi selected a roster that combines both experience and young talent to preserve the chance of a victory against Germany.
Combined XI revealed: Xavi and Jürgen Klopp start Nations League duel
The Nations League clash between the Netherlands and Germany will be played on Thursday at the Amsterdam Arena stadium. A minute of silence in honour of Bartina Koeman is to be observed before kickoff. Both coaches, Xavi and Jürgen Klopp, will therefore be making their first international match as national team managers.
Ronald Koeman had stepped down from the Dutch national coach position after the disappointing World Cup away campaign, in which the team was eliminated in the round of 16 by Morocco. His withdrawal and the loss of his wife mark a watershed moment for the Dutch football scene.
Xavi starts strongly with the Oranje, 1‑1 against Germany and a hopeful outlook
The match can be followed on SRF, with the image rights provided by Imago Images/DeFodi Images. The coverage promises an emotional duel that will be overshadowed by the mourning for Bartina Koeman.