Hugo Borst proposes Louis van Gaal as Xavi’s Netherlands assistant
The Dutch analyst believes Van Gaal’s experience and knowledge of Spanish could help the new Oranje coach, although his fellow pundits doubt the arrangement would work.
UnconfirmedThis report is based on Dutch media speculation and has not been confirmed by the clubs or players involved.
Hugo Borst has suggested that Louis van Gaal could join Xavi Hernández’s Netherlands staff as an assistant. According to FCUpdate, Van Gaal had indicated that he was open to becoming national-team coach but was not approached before the KNVB chose Xavi.
Speaking on De Eretribune, Borst acknowledged that it is difficult to imagine the experienced coach accepting a supporting position. Nevertheless, he believes Van Gaal could do so for somebody he respects and argued that his extensive coaching experience would be valuable to Xavi, who does not possess the same depth of experience in the role.
Borst also highlighted Van Gaal’s ability to communicate in Spanish. He described the proposed appointment as “a sacrifice for Dutch football”, while making clear that it was his own idea rather than a move known to be under consideration by the KNVB or Xavi.
The other analysts on the programme were unconvinced. Marciano Vink argued that attention would quickly shift away from Xavi, with journalists instead directing questions to Van Gaal, and said the former Oranje coach needs to be in charge himself. Mario Been considered a more distant advisory position more plausible, but could not envisage Van Gaal working on the training pitch as an assistant. No formal talks or plans for such an appointment were reported.
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