Manchester City have strengthened their coaching setup with the appointment of two new coaches to Pep Guardiola's first team staff. The Premier League champions confirmed on Tuesday that Pepijn Lijnders has joined as assistant coach while James French takes on the role of set-piece coach.
Lijnders, 42, brings extensive elite-level coaching experience to the Etihad Stadium, having worked both in the Premier League and across Europe. The Dutch coach is expected to play a significant role in Guardiola's tactical setup as City look to maintain their domestic dominance.
Meanwhile, French joins City from Liverpool, where he specialized in set-piece coaching – an increasingly crucial aspect of the modern game that can often be the difference in tight contests.
Club Statement on New Appointments
In their official announcement, Manchester City highlighted the experience both coaches bring to their respective roles.
"Pepijn and James have each amassed huge experience working in their individual roles over the past few years," the statement read. "Everyone at Manchester City wishes Pepijn and James the very best of luck in their new roles."
These appointments come as City continue to evolve their backroom staff to maintain their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. The timing of these additions suggests Guardiola is planning for the upcoming season with renewed tactical approaches.
The appointments could signal a fresh approach for City as they prepare for the 2025/26 season, with both coaches bringing new perspectives to Guardiola's established methods.
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