Netherlands vs Germany: First big test awaits Xavi and Klopp

Netherlands host Germany on Thursday in one of the standout UEFA Nations League games during this international break.

The fixture marks a new era for both teams . Xavi Hernandez is in charge of the Netherlands for the first time, while Jurgen Klopp will be in the German dugout.

The teams have not met since a 2-2 draw in the Nations League in 2024. Germany hold the better overall head-to-head record, winning 18, drawing 18 and losing 12 of their previous 48 matches.

Xavi has a strong squad for this clash, including Liverpool quartet Virgil van Dijk , Ryan Gravenberch , Jeremy Frimpong and Cody Gakpo , Arsenal 's Jurrien Timber and Sunderland 's Brian Brobbey .

The former Barcelona midfielder has said he wants his team to be 'defined by its intensity and ambition', a philosophy he will look to implement during his time in charge.

Thursday's meeting with Germany may be too early for the Netherlands to adapt to his philosophy, but they are expected to show a glimpse of it.

It is unclear whether Xavi will stick with his preferred 4-3-3 formation.

Regardless of the formation, the hosts will look to control possession, move the ball quickly and create numerical advantages.

Klopp also wants his team to play with high intensity, adding further intrigue to this encounter.

The former Liverpool manager has named Arsenal's Kai Havertz , Barcelona's Karim Adeyemi and Brentford 's Kevin Schade in his squad.

Germany will aim to control possession, making the midfield battle one to watch.

Xavi and Klopp share a desire for intensity and possession-based football. It will be intriguing to see which side imposes its style and controls the midfield.