Stunning Move: Pep Lijnders Set to Join Manchester City Coaching Staff Ahead of 2025/26 Season
In a move that’s shocked the English football world, Pep Lijnders is reportedly set to become part of Pep Guardiola’s coaching team at Manchester City for the 2025/26 campaign, per Fabrizio Romano.
Following his departure from Red Bull Salzburg late last year, Lijnders — previously Jurgen Klopp’s trusted assistant and a central figure in Liverpool’s tactical setup — is poised for a fresh start at the Etihad.
While his exact responsibilities haven’t been disclosed, he’s expected to take up a senior assistant role, supporting training and matchday preparations.
Ex-Liverpool Coach Crossing Rival Lines
Lijnders had expressed interest in a head coaching role, but the opportunity to work under Guardiola — regarded as one of football’s most brilliant tacticians — seems to have proven irresistible.
His move adds another layer of intrigue to the fierce rivalry between Manchester City and Liverpool, as Lijnders brings deep insider knowledge of the Reds to their Premier League rivals.
Guardiola Reshaping City’s Coaching Team
The shake-up may not stop with Lijnders. Former Arsenal and City defender Kolo Toure is also being linked with a position in Guardiola’s staff, possibly as a development or defensive coach.
Toure has previously held roles at clubs like Celtic, Leicester, and Wigan Athletic. If confirmed, the addition of both Lijnders and Toure would further strengthen City’s coaching setup as they target continued success at home and abroad.
Meanwhile, on the player front, City are reportedly tracking Lyon’s Rayan Cherki — also a Manchester United target — and Newcastle’s Tino Livramento as potential summer signings.
