Lijnders Joins Guardiola’s Technical Team

Manchester City officially announced on Tuesday the arrival of Pep Lijnders as the new assistant coach to Pep Guardiola — a strategic move aimed at reinforcing the team’s coaching staff ahead of the Club World Cup and the 2025–26 season.

Lijnders, who served as Jürgen Klopp’s right-hand man during his successful spell at Liverpool, played a key role in the club’s triumphs, including the Champions League title in 2019 and the Premier League crown in 2020. He now takes over the role previously held by Spaniard Juan Manuel Lillo, who worked alongside Guardiola in recent years.

In addition to Lijnders, the club also hired James French as set-piece coach. French, with experience at Swansea City, had worked at Liverpool since 2012, focusing on dead-ball situations.

Off-Field Reinforcements to Compete on All Fronts

With a background coaching youth sides at PSV Eindhoven and Porto, and a brief stint as head coach of NEC in the Netherlands, Lijnders became a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s recent success. Though his short tenure at RB Salzburg in 2024 ended in dismissal, his tactical knowledge remains highly regarded.

Manchester City’s sporting director Hugo Viana praised the new additions to the staff: “Their talent, work ethic, and commitment align with Pep’s values and the football style he wants to implement. I have no doubt both will be key assets as we prepare for the Club World Cup and the upcoming season.”

With these signings, City is betting on a renewed technical structure filled with international experience to raise the team’s level. As always, Guardiola’s focus remains on excellence — and his mission to reestablish Manchester City as the most dominant force in European football is clearly underway.