Pep Lijnders’ move to Manchester City to become Pep Guardiola’s new assistant manager would have surprised both Sky Blues and Liverpool fans.
Jurgen Klopp described Lijnders as an “inspiration” as the pair teamed up to form an incredible coaching duo in Merseyside, which made his move to the Reds’ fiercest rivals in recent years was a bolt from the blue.
However, unlike in the cases of players, assistant coaches are perhaps not considered disloyal for moving from one club to to another.
Manchester City are implementing Pep Lijnders’ tactics already as he seems to have a big say on their approach already, as Pep Guardiola set his side up in a 4-2-4 shape while pressing akin to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool side in his final season at Anfield.
Pepijn Lijnders during Manchester City FC v Al Ain.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Pep Lijnders rearranged family holiday to start Man City role
With Pep Guardiola aiming to play more direct football next season, perhaps Lijnders’ influence is one of the reasons behind his potential outlook.
Juanma Lillo was the Catalan boss’ confidant on the sidelines and the Dutchman could play a similar role to the veteran now.
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What would excite Manchester City fans is that Pep Lijnders was keen to start his role at the Etihad Stadium to the extent that the 42-year-old rearranged his family holiday — according to The Athletic.
Who Pep Guardiola initially wanted to appoint instead of Pep Lijnders
Lijnders has been vocal in Manchester City’s training sessions as he already seems to be establishing his authority on the players.
It seems like much like City’s squad, the former Liverpool coach is eager to impress next season after being sacked by RB Salzburg.
Interestingly, Pep Guardiola’s dream appointment was Carlos Vicens as his assistant manager for the following campaign.
Pep Guardiola and Carlos Vicens at the FIFA Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia back in 2023.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
However, Vicens, who was City’s set-piece coach decide to take up the opportunity of managing Braga.
In Lijnders, Pep Guardiola has an experienced right-hand man on his side who could help lead Manchester City return to their scintillating best.