Pep Lijnders Joins man City as Assistant Coach: A Game-Changer or a Mistake?
Pep Lijnders appointment, Man City coaching staff 2025, set-piece strategies in football
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Pep Lijnders Appointed as Man City Assistant Coach: A New Era Begins

In a significant development for Manchester City’s coaching team, Pep Lijnders has been officially appointed as the new assistant coach. The announcement was made by renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, confirming Lijnders’ new role alongside the existing coaching staff. This move is expected to bolster the tactical acumen and overall performance of the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Who is Pep Lijnders?

Pep Lijnders, a name synonymous with tactical innovation and coaching excellence, has an impressive track record in the world of football. Previously associated with Liverpool FC, Lijnders gained recognition for his strategic insights and ability to develop players. His time at Liverpool saw him contribute significantly to the club’s success, including their UEFA Champions League triumph in 2019 and their first Premier League title in 30 years.

His appointment at Manchester City marks a new chapter in his career, where he is expected to bring his expertise and fresh ideas to a team that is already a powerhouse in English and European football. Lijnders is known for his meticulous approach to training and his emphasis on tactical flexibility, which will be crucial as City looks to maintain its dominance in the Premier League and compete in Europe.

James French Joins as Set-Piece Coach

In addition to Lijnders’ appointment, Manchester City has also signed James French as the new set-piece coach. French comes with a wealth of experience and will be responsible for enhancing the team’s performance during set-piece situations, which can often be a game-changer in tight matches. His role will involve analyzing opposition weaknesses and implementing strategies to capitalize on these during matches.

Set-pieces are a vital component of modern football, and having a dedicated coach like French will allow City to maximize their scoring opportunities from corners, free-kicks, and throw-ins. This strategic move is indicative of the club’s commitment to continuous improvement and tactical sophistication.

The Impact on Manchester City’s Coaching Staff

The addition of Pep Lijnders and James French to the coaching staff signifies a proactive approach by Manchester City as they aim to further their success. With Pep Guardiola at the helm, the club has enjoyed unprecedented success in recent years, including multiple Premier League titles and domestic cup victories. However, the ever-evolving nature of football necessitates constant adaptation and innovation.

Lijnders’ appointment is particularly noteworthy as he shares a strong rapport with Guardiola, having previously worked with him in various capacities. Their mutual understanding of football philosophy and tactical approaches could lead to enhanced synergy within the coaching staff, ultimately benefiting the players and the overall team performance.

What This Means for Manchester City Moving Forward

The introduction of Lijnders and French comes at a crucial time for Manchester City. As the club prepares for another competitive season, their expertise will be instrumental in refining the team’s tactics and strategies. City has set high standards in the Premier League and Europe, and the pressure to perform is relentless.

With Lijnders’ innovative ideas and French’s specialization in set-pieces, fans can expect a more dynamic and versatile Manchester City side. The duo’s contributions will be pivotal as the team looks to maintain its position at the top of English football and make a significant impact in the UEFA Champions League.

Conclusion

Pep Lijnders’ appointment as Manchester City’s new assistant coach, along with James French’s addition as set-piece coach, marks an exciting new phase for the club. Both coaches bring unique skills and experiences that will enhance the team’s tactical depth and performance. As Manchester City continues to strive for greatness, the integration of these coaches into the staff is a clear indication of their ambition and commitment to excellence.

In the competitive landscape of modern football, having a highly skilled coaching team is essential for success. With Lijnders and French on board, Manchester City is poised to tackle the challenges ahead and aim for further glory on domestic and European fronts. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how these changes will influence the team’s performance in the upcoming season. As the club embarks on this new journey, the excitement surrounding their potential is palpable, making it a thrilling time to be a Manchester City supporter.

Official, exclusive story confirmed. Pep Lijnders has been appointed as new Man City assistant coach.

James French also signs in as set-piece coach. pic.twitter.com/qsK3UYPZiJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 10, 2025

Official, exclusive story confirmed. Pep Lijnders has been appointed as new Man City assistant coach.

When news breaks in the world of football, it tends to make waves, and the recent announcement regarding Pep Lijnders stepping in as the new assistant coach for Manchester City is no exception. For fans and analysts alike, this appointment is not just another coaching shuffle; it signifies a strategic move by Pep Guardiola to enhance his coaching staff and build on the club’s recent successes.

Pep Lijnders, who previously made a name for himself in the coaching world, is well-regarded for his tactical acumen and ability to develop players. His return to Manchester City comes with high expectations. Lijnders has worked closely with Guardiola in the past, and many believe that their synergy will create a potent force on the pitch. With City aiming for more silverware in the coming seasons, this appointment could prove pivotal for their title ambitions.

James French also signs in as set-piece coach.

In addition to Lijnders, the announcement of James French joining as the set-piece coach adds another layer of excitement for City supporters. Set-pieces can often be the difference in tight matches, and having a specialist like French on board highlights the club’s desire to refine every aspect of their game. French’s expertise in this area could provide City with that extra edge, especially in crucial moments during matches.

French’s arrival is a testament to the club’s commitment to excellence. In football, every detail matters, and with the competition getting fiercer, having someone dedicated to maximizing set-piece opportunities could lead to more goals and, ultimately, more wins. The combination of Lijnders’ tactical insights and French’s set-piece strategy could turn Manchester City into a more formidable opponent than ever before.

The Implications of Lijnders’ Appointment

Pep Lijnders’ appointment is more than just a fresh face in the coaching staff; it’s a reflection of Manchester City’s ambition and vision for the future. Guardiola has built a winning culture at City, and bringing in someone he trusts implicitly can only strengthen that foundation. Their previous collaborations have shown that they can work in harmony, and this chemistry is crucial for creating a competitive team environment.

Lijnders is known for his innovative training methods and his ability to connect with players on a personal level. This is particularly important in a high-pressure environment like Manchester City, where the expectations are sky-high. Players respond positively to coaches who understand their needs and can foster their development, and Lijnders has a proven track record of doing just that.

Moreover, Lijnders’ familiarity with the Premier League and his strategic mindset will be invaluable as the club navigates through various competitions, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. His insights can help City adapt to different styles of play, ensuring they remain a dominant force both domestically and in Europe.

The Future of Manchester City Under Lijnders and French

The combination of Pep Lijnders and James French represents a new chapter for Manchester City. With Lijnders focusing on the overall tactical approach and player development while French hones in on set-piece strategies, fans can expect to see a more polished and effective team on the pitch. This is especially critical as City aims to defend their titles and push for new ones.

The dynamics between coaches and players play a significant role in a team’s success. With Lijnders’ knack for fostering relationships and French’s specialized skill set, City could unlock new levels of performance. Player morale and confidence often hinge on their belief in their coaching staff, and this new duo is poised to inspire the squad to reach greater heights.

The Premier League is notoriously competitive, and with clubs investing heavily in their squads and coaching teams, Manchester City must stay ahead of the curve. The appointment of Lijnders and French is a proactive step in ensuring that City remains at the forefront of English football.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The news of Pep Lijnders’ return has been met with enthusiasm by many Manchester City fans. Supporters are excited to see how his tactical approach will influence the team and what innovations he might bring to training sessions. Furthermore, the addition of James French as set-piece coach has also been well-received, as fans recognize the importance of maximizing every scoring opportunity.

Social media platforms have been buzzing with reactions to this announcement. Many fans are optimistic that Lijnders’ familiarity with the club and its players will translate into immediate results on the pitch. Others are eagerly awaiting the first glimpses of how the team dynamics shift with this new coaching setup.

In a league where every point counts, the stakes are incredibly high. Fans are hopeful that these changes will not only enhance performance but also solidify Manchester City’s status as a powerhouse in English football. The upcoming season will undoubtedly be a crucial one, and the coaching staff will play a significant role in determining the club’s success.

Looking Ahead

As Manchester City gears up for the new season, the impact of Pep Lijnders and James French will be closely monitored. Their roles will not just be about tactics but also about instilling a winning mentality among the players. The journey ahead is filled with challenges, but with the right strategies and a robust coaching setup, City fans have every reason to be optimistic.

The football landscape continues to evolve, and clubs must adapt to stay relevant. Lijnders and French are part of that evolution for Manchester City, and their contributions will be pivotal as the club aims to maintain its dominance in both domestic and European competitions.

With the new season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Manchester City to see how these appointments play out on the pitch. Fans are ready for the excitement, and the anticipation is building for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in the club’s history. As Pep Guardiola and his team embark on this new journey, supporters will be right there, cheering them on every step of the way.