Pep Ljinders
Image Credits: Getty Images
Pep Ljinders could be set for a return to the Premier League this summer, just not at Liverpool.
The Dutchman followed Jurgen Klopp out of the exit door after the German announced his decision to step down from his position at Anfield.
The 42-year-old then made an ill-fated move to RB Salzburg that did not work out for both parties.
The former Reds assistant manager is now back on the job market.
Hired in May 2024 after nine years as Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool assistant, the Dutchman initially sparked optimism with a strong start, including Champions League qualification.
However, Salzburg soon faltered, winning only 13 of 29 matches across all competitions.
A 5-0 thrashing by rivals Sturm Graz and a 4-0 Champions League defeat to Brest added to his woes, leaving the club fifth domestically.
He has also been linked with for the managers role at Norwich City, with reports circling that he was set for an interview with the Canaries.
Now Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Lijnders as well as former Liverpool man Kolo Toure are being examined as options for Pep Guardiola’s backroom staff next season.
Taking to X, the Italian reported:
“Kolo Touré and Pep Lijnders are two options under consideration at Manchester City to be part of Pep Guardiola’s staff. Decisions on new staff members soon following departures of Juanma Lillo, Íñigo Domínguez and Carlos Vicens.”
With pre-season beginning July 15, City will want to sort out the Spaniard’s staff sooner rather than later.
Guardiola’s backroom exodus include:
Juanma Lillo: Guardiola’s tactical mentor since 2006 Dorados Sinaloa days
Carlos Vicens: Set-piece specialist
Íñigo Domínguez: Technical coach since 2023
The backroom reshuffle comes after City’s first non-top-two Premier League finish under Guardiola.
🚨🔵 EXCLUSIVE: Kolo Touré and Pep Lijnders are two options under consideration at Manchester City to be part of Pep Guardiola’s staff.
Decisions on new staff members soon following departures of Juanma Lillo, Íñigo Domínguez and Carlos Vicens. pic.twitter.com/ONc90TpG4K
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 29, 2025
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