MANCHESTER, England — Two influential figures from Liverpool’s coaching team have been appointed to Pep Guardiola’s staff at Manchester City. Pepijn Lijnders, who served as Jurgen Klopp’s main assistant at Liverpool, has been named as City’s new assistant manager. Lijnders left Liverpool and began last season as the head coach at Salzburg before being dismissed in the role.
Joining him from Liverpool is James French, who comes to City as their new set-piece coach. French brings an end to his 13-year tenure at Anfield, where he worked diligently as an opposition analyst. His vast experience is set to enhance City’s tactical strategies.
Hugo Viana, Manchester City’s recently appointed director of football, expressed enthusiasm about the new additions. “Pepijn and James have accumulated significant experience in their respective roles over the years,” he stated. “Their talent, dedication, and hard-working nature match perfectly with the ethos that Pep envisions for the style of football he wants.”
The recruitment of Lijnders and French comes just in time as City prepares for the upcoming Club World Cup set to begin on Saturday. Their expertise and fresh perspectives are anticipated to bolster City’s pursuit of further success in international tournaments.