Manchester City are not only focused on strengthening their playing squad this summer but are also actively restructuring Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff, following the unexpected departure of three of his assistants.
Carlos Vicens has taken on a new role as head coach at Braga, while Juanma Lillo and Inigo Dominguez are set to return to Spain early, departing before the end of their contracts and prior to the start of the FIFA Club World Cup.
This has left Guardiola needing to revamp his bench team urgently, ideally before the squad flies to the United States for the tournament next week. As transfers like Tijjani Reijnders near completion and advanced discussions continue for Rayan Cherki and Rayan Ait-Nouri, City are also prioritising new coaching appointments.
Pep Lijnders Set for City Role
Former Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders is close to joining Guardiola’s staff. RB Salzburg, where Lijnders had a challenging spell as manager, has officially confirmed the termination of his contract by mutual agreement.
“After some very constructive and positive discussions in recent days, we have terminated the contract with our former coach Pepijn Lijnders by mutual agreement,” Salzburg announced. “We thank him for his commitment and wish him all the best in his future career.”
James French Also on City’s Radar
James French, a long-serving performance analyst at Liverpool since 2012, is also being considered by City. French played a role under multiple managers at Anfield and contributed to Liverpool’s major successes, including two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy.
Guardiola Values Independent Thinkers
Speaking last year to Sky Sports, Guardiola emphasized the importance of having assistants who challenge him rather than simply agreeing with his decisions:
“The assistant coach is the only position I must personally choose. With player transfers, the club often takes the lead, and I must accept that. But with my coaching team, I need someone close, someone who challenges me intellectually and pushes me to improve,” he said.
City depart for the Club World Cup next week, with their opening match scheduled for June 18 against Wydad AC. The club aims to have much of its revamped coaching and playing staff in place ahead of the tournament kickoff.
