Need to know
Pep Guardiola won't be on the touchline for Manchester City's FA Cup clash with Liverpool, with Pep Lijnders assuming matchday managerial responsibilities instead
Pep Lijnders and Pep Guardiola
Pep Lijnders will be managing Man City against Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Everything you need to know about Pep Lijnders managing Man City vs Liverpool:
The incident: Pep Guardiola is serving a two-match touchline ban following six accumulated yellow cards in domestic competitions this season. The final caution arrived during City's 3-1 FA Cup fifth-round triumph over Newcastle, when his objections to the fourth official were deemed excessive by the referee.
The ban: Premier League regulations state that managers receive a one-match ban upon reaching three yellow cards in a single season and a two-match ban for six yellow cards. The suspension applies solely to Premier League and FA Cup fixtures, with Guardiola also missing City's encounter with West Ham last month.
Restrictions: Guardiola is now barred from the technical area, the pitch and the dressing room throughout the match. He is, however, allowed to observe from the stands and contact his coaching staff through headset or mobile device.
Pep Lijnders steps in: In an ironic turn that has captured pre-match attention, Man City assistant Pep Lijnders will assume control in the dugout. Lijnders joined Guardiola's backroom team after leaving Liverpool in 2024, making today's fixture a charged reunion with his previous club.
The Liverpool connection: Lijnders spent nearly a decade at Anfield, working as the influential right-hand man to Jurgen Klopp. His extensive understanding of Liverpool's squad - many of whom he helped nurture - brings an intriguing tactical dimension to today's quarter-final.
Lijnders' previous experience: While this represents a temporary step-up at City, Lijnders is well-versed in handling the demands of the big occasion. He regularly led pre-match press conferences and League Cup responsibilities during his spell at Liverpool and has enjoyed brief periods as head coach of both NEC and Red Bull Salzburg.
Match stakes: Today's winner earns a place at Wembley for the FA Cup semi-finals. There, they will meet either the winner of Chelsea vs Port Vale, Southampton vs Arsenal or West Ham vs Leeds.
Match date and kick off: Man City vs Liverpool takes place on Saturday, April 4 at the Etihad Stadium. Kick off is scheduled for 12:45pm UK time.
How to watch: The match is available to watch on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Supporters can also stream coverage of the fixture on the HBO Max app and website.