Why Did Pepijn Lijnders Join Man City as Assistant Coach?
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Synopsis
Exciting changes are happening at Manchester City! Pepijn Lijnders has joined as the assistant coach, bringing a wealth of experience from Liverpool and beyond. Alongside him, James French steps in as the set-piece coach. Discover how these appointments may impact the upcoming season for Guardiola's team.
Key Takeaways
- Pepijn Lijnders has joined Manchester City as the assistant coach.
- James French will serve as the set-piece coach.
- Both coaches have significant experience in the Premier League.
- Lijnders previously worked with Liverpool under Klopp.
- These appointments align with the club's goals for the upcoming season.
Manchester, June 10 (NationPress) Manchester City has welcomed Pepijn Lijnders as their new assistant coach, while James French has been appointed as the set-piece coach, joining Pep Guardiola’s first team coaching staff.
Lijnders comes to the Etihad Stadium with a wealth of high-level coaching experience in both the Premier League and across Europe.
The 42-year-old Dutch coach began his coaching journey in 2002, initially with the youth academy of PSV Eindhoven before moving on to a similar role at FC Porto in Portugal.
He transitioned to England in 2014, becoming part of Brendan Rodgers' staff at Liverpool before continuing under Jurgen Klopp after the German took charge in 2015.
After a brief period as manager of Dutch club NEC in early 2018, Lijnders returned to Liverpool later that same year.
He departed with Klopp in the summer of 2024, later managing RB Salzburg for six months.
On the other hand, French joins City from Liverpool as a crucial set-piece coach, bringing his extensive experience in the Premier League.
Beginning his career with roles at Swansea and the FA of Wales, French joined Liverpool's staff in 2012, spending over a decade as a first-team opposition analyst.
Regarding the new appointments, Hugo Viana, Director of Football, expressed excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to have Pepijn and James join our senior coaching team. Both have accumulated significant experience in their respective roles. Their skills, dedication, and commitment resonate with the principles that Pep envisions for the game.
"I have no doubt they will be vital assets to Pep and his coaching team as we gear up for the Club World Cup and the 2025/26 season."
Point of View
It's clear that Manchester City's latest coaching appointments reflect their commitment to excellence. With experienced coaches like Pepijn Lijnders and James French, the club is poised for a competitive edge in the upcoming seasons. Their proven track record in the Premier League will undoubtedly contribute to the club's aspirations.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What experience does Pepijn Lijnders have?
Pepijn Lijnders has extensive coaching experience, having worked at PSV Eindhoven, FC Porto, and Liverpool, where he was part of the coaching staff under Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp.
Who else joined Manchester City as a coach?
In addition to Pepijn Lijnders, James French has been appointed as the set-piece coach, bringing valuable experience from his time at Liverpool.
