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It has been revealed that Jurgen Klopp had a part to play in Pep Lijnders confirmed appointment at Manchester City.

Liverpool’s perennial title rivals confirmed the appointment of Lijnders as Pep Guardiola’s new assistant manager, alongside former Liverpool analyst James French as set-piece coach.

The move marks Lijnders’ return to English football just 16 months after departing Liverpool alongside Jürgen Klopp.

The Dutchman, who spent nearly a decade as Klopp’s trusted lieutenant and helped deliver seven major trophies at Anfield, signed a one-year contract with an option for extension.

His appointment follows Guardiola’s direct approach in late May.

Man City Director of Football Hugo Viana said of the appointments:

“We are all delighted that Pepijn and James have joined our senior coaching set-up.”

“Pepijn and James have each amassed huge experience working in their individual roles over the past few years.

“Their talent, application, work ethic and all-round commitment are totally aligned with the values that underpin how Pep wants football to be played.”

“And I have no doubt at all that both will prove to be very important assets for Pep and his coaching team as we prepare for the Club World Cup and then the 2025/26 season.”

James Pearce of the Athletic revealed that the Manchester City manager personally reached out to express his desire for Lijnders to join his coaching staff as assistant manager.

Their conversation lasted about thirty minutes, during which they discussed their shared football philosophies and the specific roles and responsibilities Lijnders would assume at the Etihad.

Guardiola made it clear that he wanted Lijnders to be part of the team straight away

And then it was revealed that Jurgen Klopp gave a glowing review in a direct call with Guardiola:

“The City manager called Klopp on the same topic and received more glowing feedback about Lijnders’ contribution to helping Liverpool win the Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup, FA Cup and Carabao Cup (twice).”

Lijnders will admittedly not be looked at on Merseyside the same way, and it remains to be seen how the Anfield faithful react to him being on the away bench when the two sides meet next season.

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