Wesley Sneijder has criticised the Dutch Football Association’s approach to coaching qualifications after Xavi Hernandez was appointed manager of the Netherlands national team.
The former Inter Milan midfielder said Xavi obtained his A, B and Pro coaching licences in just four weeks, despite the requirements previously imposed on other coaches by the Dutch FA.
“Xavi obtained the A, B and Pro coaching licences within four weeks,” Sneijder told French website Foot Mercato. “I find it very strange that they choose a coach who does not even meet the requirements of the Dutch Football Association itself.”
Sneijder said the decision had exposed what he regarded as a clear inconsistency in the way coaching regulations were being applied.
He claimed the Dutch FA had previously told him that he would need to complete a training programme lasting several years before he could obtain the relevant licences. According to Sneijder, he was also informed that it was no longer possible to accelerate the process because of regulations set by European football’s governing body, UEFA.
The former Netherlands international stressed that his criticism was not directed at Xavi’s coaching ability. Instead, he questioned the manner in which the Dutch FA had handled the licensing requirements, particularly in light of his own experience.
Sneijder’s coaching career came to a halt in 2021 after a disagreement with the Dutch FA. He had sought more tailored support for former players with significant experience, but the dispute contributed to him ending his involvement in coaching.
“I wish the same for Xavi, and for the Dutch FA too, but I find it strange,” Sneijder said.
He also rejected the explanation that UEFA’s regulations were responsible for the different treatment.
“They say: ‘The decision comes from UEFA’,” Sneijder added. “That is not true.”
Xavi’s appointment has therefore reopened the debate in the Netherlands over the standards required for coaching licences and whether the Dutch FA applies those conditions consistently to different coaches.
The issue has also highlighted the contrast between the route Sneijder said he was required to follow and the four-week process he claimed was completed by Xavi for the A, B and Pro qualifications.