Klopp Considered Man City Assistant Role Under Guardiola

Jurgen Klopp eyed Manchester City assistant job under Pep Guardiola, according to a surprising recent revelation by Pep Lijnders. The story offers a fascinating twist in the ongoing rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester City, two teams that have defined English football over the last decade.

Klopp’s Interest in Manchester City Assistant Role Unveiled

Jurgen Klopp, the legendary former Liverpool manager, reportedly joked about taking the Manchester City assistant role if Pep Lijnders declined the opportunity. Lijnders, Klopp’s longtime right-hand man at Liverpool, made the switch to City in the summer of 2025 to work alongside Guardiola at the Etihad.

Discussing his decision, Lijnders said, “The moment Pep called and shared his ideas with me, it made my decision a lot easier. But after ten years at Liverpool, leaving wasn’t simple. When I spoke with Jurgen, he was so direct: ‘If you don’t do it, I will take the assistant job!’” This light-hearted exchange highlights both Klopp’s enduring passion for the game and the close relationship between the two coaches.

Pep Lijnders’ Journey from Liverpool to Manchester City

Pep Lijnders started his Anfield journey as a developmental coach under Brendan Rodgers in 2014, eventually rising to become a key figure in Klopp’s backroom staff. After a brief but challenging spell managing NEC Nijmegen in the Netherlands, he returned to Liverpool and was pivotal in the club’s recent successes.

Following Klopp’s departure in 2024, Lijnders took over as Red Bull Salzburg’s manager for the 2024-25 season, but an underwhelming run led to his dismissal in December. His experience and tactical insight quickly brought him back into the Premier League spotlight, this time as Guardiola’s trusted assistant at Manchester City.

Manchester City’s Ambitions with Lijnders and Guardiola

The partnership between Guardiola and Lijnders is expected to further strengthen City’s tactical approach. Lijnders, having learned from Klopp’s high-pressing, attacking philosophy, now brings a fresh perspective to Guardiola’s possession-based style. “I’m proud to join a club as successful as City, and to work with a manager who has defined modern football,” Lijnders noted.

As City prepares for their upcoming clash with Tottenham Hotspur, Lijnders’ imprint on training and match preparation is already evident. Tottenham have historically troubled Guardiola’s teams, but City are determined to maintain their winning streak in North London.

Jurgen Klopp’s Future: Real Madrid Links and Charity Return

Although Klopp stepped down from Liverpool in 2024 citing fatigue, rumors persist about his return to elite management. Spanish media continue to link Klopp with the vacant Real Madrid job after Xabi Alonso’s dismissal, though he currently serves as Red Bull’s head of global soccer.

Klopp is scheduled to return to Liverpool for a special charity match in March, assisting Sir Kenny Dalglish in a legends’ game against Borussia Dortmund—a fitting tribute to his impact on both clubs.

Opinion: Klopp’s Move Shows Football’s Unpredictability

The revelation that Jurgen Klopp considered the Manchester City assistant role underscores how fluid careers can be at the top levels of football. Rivalries are fierce, but mutual respect and professional curiosity often transcend club loyalties. Klopp’s willingness to joke about joining Guardiola’s setup demonstrates his enduring love for football and his open-minded approach to new challenges.

Football fans should keep an eye on how Lijnders’ experience at Liverpool translates to Manchester City’s continued evolution. For more news and in-depth analysis, visit for more news.