Zirkzee was called into the Netherlands squad as a replacement for the injured Brian Brobbey ahead of the meeting with Serbia.
For Xavi, the decision was not simply about the qualities of the two forwards individually. The Netherlands boss believes Zirkzee offers characteristics that fit more naturally into the structure he is trying to establish with Oranje.
“I think he has the qualities to adapt to our style. He can be important for us, he is a good player,” Xavi said at his pre-match press conference.
The coach was subsequently asked directly about the competition for the striker position, with Weghorst's name raised after the FC Twente forward's recent run of form.
Xavi's response was straightforward.
“I think Zirkzee fits our style better.”
The Netherlands coach explained that his preference is based on the demands he places on the central striker within his system.
“Our striker has to understand our system and our ideas. I like him and I think he can help us,” Xavi said of Zirkzee.
The Manchester United forward therefore appears to have an important opportunity to establish himself within the new-look Netherlands side.
Xavi is attempting to introduce a clear identity based on possession, pressing and taking the initiative, rather than changing his approach according to the opposition.
That was evident in his assessment of the team's tactical development.
“How we want to attack and defend, the players understood that perfectly. We have to continue with this structure,” he said.
Micky van de Ven, who also attended the press conference, confirmed that the players have noticed a significant tactical change.
“We want to press high and play with a high line, that is quite a big change,” the Tottenham defender explained.
Van de Ven added that the squad are increasingly understanding what Xavi expects from them.
The coach also insisted that the Netherlands would maintain their principles regardless of how Serbia lined up.
“Normally Serbia play with four at the back, maybe tomorrow they will play with five. But our way of playing doesn't change,” Xavi said.
“We want to have the ball and win it back quickly, take the initiative. That is the most important thing.”
That philosophy helps explain why Zirkzee has been given the edge over Weghorst. Xavi is looking for a forward capable not only of finishing attacks but also of understanding the team's positional structure and contributing to the way Netherlands build and press.
For Zirkzee, the international call-up therefore represents another chance to convince Xavi that he can become an important part of the project.