In a development few saw coming, former Liverpool assistant manager **Pep Lijnders** is on the verge of joining **Manchester City’s** coaching staff under **Pep Guardiola**, in what could be one of the most intriguing off-pitch moves of the summer.
According to renowned transfer insider **Fabrizio Romano**, Lijnders—who recently parted ways with **Red Bull Salzburg**—has reached an agreement to become part of City’s backroom team ahead of the **2025/26 season**.
Lijnders is widely admired by Liverpool fans, having been a key tactical figure behind **Jürgen Klopp’s** golden era at Anfield. Known for his analytical mind and in-depth knowledge of high-pressing systems, he was instrumental in Liverpool’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs. His move to Manchester City, therefore, not only stirs emotions among the Reds’ faithful but also adds a fascinating twist to the rivalry between the two English giants.
While the specifics of his new position haven’t been disclosed, it is believed that Lijnders will operate as a **senior assistant**, working closely with Guardiola on tactical preparations, training sessions, and matchday operations. For a coach who had previously voiced aspirations of becoming a head manager, joining Guardiola—arguably football’s most revered tactical mind—may represent an opportunity too valuable to pass up.
### From Anfield Brilliance to Etihad Ambition
This high-profile coaching switch could significantly benefit Manchester City, not only through Lijnders’ expertise but also through his deep insight into Liverpool’s inner workings—something that could subtly tip the balance in future encounters between the two clubs.
But Guardiola’s overhaul behind the scenes might not stop there.
Reports also suggest that **Kolo Touré**—former Arsenal, Liverpool, and City defender—is being considered for a role on Guardiola’s staff. Touré has gathered coaching experience at **Celtic**, **Leicester City**, and **Wigan Athletic**, and could soon return to the Etihad as a development or defensive coach.
If confirmed, the addition of both Lijnders and Touré would mark a significant boost to City’s technical bench, as the club continues to seek marginal gains in its pursuit of Premier League and Champions League dominance.
### Transfer Tensions and Tactical Arms Race
Meanwhile, City’s interest in **Rayan Cherki**—a €45 million-rated Lyon midfielder also on **Manchester United’s** radar—signals that the transfer rivalry between the Manchester clubs is far from over. In addition, **Newcastle United’s** young full-back **Tino Livramento** has emerged as another target for Guardiola’s summer rebuild.
With these potential coaching and player additions, City’s preparations for next season are already shaping up to be both **strategic and ambitious**. The arrival of Pep Lijnders, in particular, could prove to be a masterstroke—not just tactically, but psychologically.
As Liverpool prepares for life after Klopp, Manchester City appears to be evolving yet again, reinforcing their empire with elite minds and emerging talent.
Stay tuned for more updates, especially on Kolo Touré’s status and Cherki’s next move, as the summer window continues to heat up.
