Ozetta
Dutch news, in your languageThursday, 24 September 2026No. 16,623

Sport

Xavi Keeps Starting Lineup Secret Unlike Koeman and Van Gaal: 'This Keeps Everyone Engaged'

NOS24 September · 06:1856 min ago

Dutch national team coach Xavi will reveal the starting lineup for the Nations League match against Germany only 90 minutes before kickoff, a departure from previous coaches Ronald Koeman and Louis van Gaal who informed players earlier. Xavi states this approach ensures all players remain fully engaged, while Jürgen Klopp, making his debut as Germany's coach, also values giving reserves time to process decisions. The article contrasts these methods with Van Gaal’s early notification strategy and notes that several Spanish coaches, including Pep Guardiola, similarly withhold lineups until late to maintain focus and sharpness.

Ozetta summarises; the reporting is the newsroom's

Sport