THE FUSE

Van Basten made it clear that he believes the Netherlands possesses the capability to produce its own elite tactical minds. He argued that relying on foreign appointments suggests the national football association is failing in its primary developmental duties. “I would prefer to have a Dutch coach. Because surely we should be able to produce that in the Netherlands, it seems to me,” Van Basten stated. Despite acknowledging Xavi's pedigree as a player, he maintained that the national team should strictly be guided by a compatriot.