Premier League champions Manchester City have strengthened their coaching team with two new appointments, the club announced on Tuesday.
The Cityzens revealed on their official website that Pepijn Lijnders has joined as assistant coach while James French takes over as set-piece coach. Both will work directly under manager Pep Guardiola.
Lijnders, 42, brings top-level coaching experience from both English and European football. The Dutchman previously worked as assistant manager at Liverpool before taking over as head coach at Red Bull Salzburg.
French makes the move from Liverpool where he served as set-piece specialist, a role that has grown increasingly important in modern football. His expertise helped the Reds become one of the most dangerous teams from dead-ball situations.
“Pepijn and James have each amassed huge experience working in their individual roles over the past few years,” Manchester City said in their official statement. “Everyone at Manchester City wishes Pepijn and James the very best of luck in their new roles.”
The appointments come as Guardiola looks to refresh his backroom staff following another successful season that saw City win their fourth consecutive Premier League title.
Lijnders’ familiarity with English football and French’s specialized set-piece knowledge are expected to provide fresh ideas as City prepare for the 2025/26 campaign.
