A New Chapter Unfolds
Pep Lijnders’ garage in his new Salzburg home is still bare, with unpacked boxes containing memories of his journey from coaching apprentice to becoming a top manager. Among the framed photos, shirts, and match balls from several finals, one keepsake stands out – a photo of Lijnders with Trent Alexander-Arnold on his back, given to him by the player when he left Liverpool.
Lijnders has spent 20 years honing his craft, starting as a youth coach at PSV Eindhoven, then moving to FC Porto, and eventually becoming a coach under Brendan Rodgers and Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool. His philosophy is built around developing youth and implementing a high-intensity, counter-pressing style.
Now, Lijnders is embarking on a new journey at FC Salzburg, where he hopes to channel the influences of Johan Cruyff, Arrigo Sacchi, and Wiel Coerver. His goal is to create a team that can beat anyone in the world, and he’s not afraid to take risks to achieve it.
Lijnders’ path from assistant to manager is well-trodden, with success stories like Mikel Arteta and José Mourinho, but also cautionary tales like Brian Kidd and John Carver. He knows he won’t be given a long grace period, especially at a club like Salzburg, which expects success.
Despite the challenges, Lijnders remains passionate about developing young players and creating a team that can suffocate the opposition with his counter-pressing philosophy. With a focus on youth and a history of producing world-class players, Salzburg is the perfect fit for him.
The old Liverpool coaches still keep in touch through their WhatsApp group, and Jürgen Klopp is keeping a close eye on Lijnders’ progress. “Everybody with a bit of a football eye can see his impact,” Klopp says. “I love this nice mix of real intensity, a clear idea, and possession.”
Lijnders knows there will be tough times ahead, but he’s committed to his principles and will stick to what makes him a successful coach. As he settles into his new role, he’s determined to make Salzburg a force to be reckoned with in European football.
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