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Pep Lijnders set to join Man City as assistant, breaking promise to Liverpool

John William Last updated: May 31, 2025, 3:18 pm
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Image: IMAGO / GEPA pictures

Pep Lijnders is set to join Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, in a move that breaks the promise he made to Liverpool fans when he left the club in 2024.

The 42-year-old Dutchman had previously insisted he would never assist another manager after his time at Anfield, but is now set to become part of Guardiola’s backroom staff as City look to rebuild after a trophyless season.

Lijnders’ appointment comes as Liverpool fans are still reeling from the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid, as well as Liverpool’s busy transfer window that has already seen Jeremie Frimpong signed and moves for Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez edging closer.

Pep Lijnders’ Promise to Liverpool Fans

When Lijnders left Liverpool alongside Jurgen Klopp in 2024, he made a heartfelt statement about his future:

“I always said I will finish with Jurgen; the moment I will not assist anyone else, that’s the moment I will go and I will manage. That was always the case. My boys, my wife—they are Scousers, and I owe this club everything.”

His decision to join Manchester City has left many Liverpool fans feeling betrayed, given the rivalry between the two clubs and the promise he made.

Klopp’s Praise Highlights City’s Gain

Jurgen Klopp always spoke highly of Lijnders, calling him the driving force behind much of Liverpool’s success in recent years.

“The most influential guy in the last years at this club was definitely Pep Lijnders. The job he did is absolutely exceptional.”

For Manchester City, Lijnders’ arrival is seen as a major coup, especially after his brief and unsuccessful spell as RB Salzburg manager.

Key Points on Lijnders’ Move

  • Lijnders set to join Pep Guardiola at Manchester City
  • Move breaks promise to never assist another manager after Liverpool
  • Joins City after a failed managerial spell at RB Salzburg
  • Liverpool fans stunned after emotional exit statements in 2024

What’s Next for Manchester City and Lijnders?

With Lijnders joining Guardiola’s staff, Manchester City fans will be eager to see how the Dutchman’s tactical ideas influence the team’s play. For Liverpool supporters, the move feels like a bitter betrayal at the end of an era.

What do you think of Pep Lijnders’ decision to join Manchester City after leaving Liverpool? Is this a betrayal, or just part of football? Share your thoughts below and join the debate with fellow fans!

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