Lijnders arrived at the Etihad last summer with the brief of being one of Guardiola’s closest confidants in the search for more silverware.
Having previously been with Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, Lijnders is well accustomed to working with big name managers.
Lijnders on January transfer business
However, he reserved special praise for Guardiola’s abilities as he stepped in for the Catalan in Friday’s press conference ahead of Sunday’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur.
“He’s brilliant,” he began.
“He has a passion and a game understanding from a different planet and he knows exactly what he wants.
“The top ones, what sets them apart is their love for his team.
“The quality lies in how to touch the heart of players and how you prepare them to play in a certain way. It didn’t surprise me but I really like it.
“Best ones are like that. All these guys push themselves to limits to feel that and are constantly searching for that.
“He’s very professional and ambitious.
“He wants to make an impact every day what I feel his biggest strength is the passion for the team and for his love for the backroom staff.”
City v Newcastle Second leg tickets available!
See the conclusion of what promises to be a thrilling final four tie at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday 4 February.
Newcastle are the holders of the Carabao Cup and will be determined to hold on to their crown, while City are seeking a ninth success in League Cup history.
Tickets start from £20 for adults and £10 for concessions, while a wide range of hospitality packages starting from £250 are also on offer to make it a special occasion!
*On sale to Season Ticket Members and existing Cityzens Matchday and Junior Members (as of Tue 16 Dec 2025) who have purchased 1+ home fixtures at the Etihad Stadium. 4 tickets per person.
