The Netherlands finally have their new head coach after the KNVB ended its search by appointing former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández.

The decision has, however, received a lukewarm response from PSV icons Willy and René van de Kerkhof.

Speaking on the Willy & René PSV Podcast of Omroep Brabant, as quoted by PSV Inside, Willy made clear that he is yet to be convinced by the appointment, although he believes the Spanish coach deserves an opportunity to prove himself.

“Of course we have to give him the benefit of the doubt, but I’m not really very enthusiastic yet. I would much rather have seen a Dutchman in his place, and it may say something about the state of our football that we couldn’t find one,” Willy said.

The KNVB's search lasted more than a month and a half, with several Dutch candidates linked to the position before Xavi ultimately emerged as the choice.

For a long period, Michael Reiziger appeared to be the leading candidate. According to journalist Martijn Krabbendam of Voetbal International, Reiziger had long been the KNVB's preferred option.

Louis van Gaal also emerged as a possibility shortly before Xavi's appointment, with De Telegraaf reporting that the former Netherlands coach was willing to discuss a return for a fourth spell.

Other prominent Dutch coaches had already ruled themselves out. Peter Bosz, Erik ten Hag and Arne Slot were among those who ruled themselves out for the KNVB.

For René van de Kerkhof, Bosz would have been the preferred choice.

“Bosz should have been the one. And Xavi was a big name, but that doesn't necessarily mean that he is a great coach. But he deserves the benefit of the doubt,” René said.

The comments underline the reservations surrounding the KNVB's decision to look abroad for its next national team coach. Both PSV greats believe a Dutch appointment would have been preferable, while stopping short of dismissing Xavi before he has had the opportunity to work with the squad.

For now, the Spanish coach has been given the benefit of the doubt. The responsibility now lies with Xavi to turn that caution into confidence when his Netherlands reign begins.