Henk De Jong, the first boss of Arne Slot, believes that Liverpool want Pepijn Lijnders to return in the future
Cambuur manager Henk De Jong, the first boss of Arne Slot, believes Liverpool want Pepijn Lijnders back at some point. Lijnders is parting ways with Liverpool alongside legendary manager Jurgen Klopp after the current season ends with three games remaining.
The 41-year-old would pursue his managerial career once again but he has hinted a potential return to Liverpool. He managed NEC for a while in 2018 but faced the sacking after failing to gain promotion to the Eredivisie.
Lijnders returned to Liverpool as part of the coaching staff during the summer of 2018 before the 2018-19 season. He played an instrumental role under Klopp as the Reds won the Premier League and the Champions League.
The 41-year-old published a book “Intensity: Our Identity” which provided inside information on Liverpool’s training methodology and tactics. Some fans questioned the decision to expose information, many understood that having information and implementing it are two different things.
De Jong expressed the feeling (h/t Mirror) he got from Liverpool during his visit to Kirkby, particularly towards Lijnders. He said:
“Everyone at Liverpool is hoping that Arne is going to do really well. Pep Lijnders is not staying, but I sensed everyone at Liverpool is hoping Pep will come back to the club one day. They all spoke very highly about him and I really think he has built a big reputation for himself.
Pending confirmation from the two clubs, Liverpool is finalizing the appointment of Feyenoord manager Slot. The 45-year-old deploys a similar philosophy and tactics which Liverpool fans have enjoyed under Klopp. Furthermore, he has proven his capability to work under a restricted budget and develop talented players with coaching.
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If Lijnders returns to the managerial role as many expect, he will return with a better reputation and wisdom. The Reds fanbase is grateful for the service that Lijnders has provided since joining the club under former manager Brendan Rodgers. If everything aligns and the 41-year-old proves his mettle as a manager, fans and the management would openly welcome the Dutchman back.
