Football news - Man City boss Guardiola turns to mentor Lillo to fill Arteta void

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has appointed his mentor and coaching inspiration Juan Manuel Lillo as his new assistant, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Lillo, 54, will take up the role vacated by Mikel Arteta, who left the Etihad Stadium to become manager at former club Arsenal.

The Spaniard joins from Qingdao Huanghai, having helped the club to the Chinese League One championship and so helping them achieve promotion to the Super League.

Premier League

Exclusive: Arteta praises 'unbelievable' mindset of Arsenal squad - 'They’re not satisfied'

Yesterday at 20:08

Lillo, who has previously managed Real Sociedad, Vissel Kobe and Real Oviedo, has worked with several world class talents during his career, including Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Yaya Toure.

He also coached Guardiola towards the end of his playing career, during their shared time in Mexico at Dorados de Sinaloa.

Chelsea enter race for next Brazil star – Euro Papers

"My relationship with Pep goes back many years and I am thrilled to be joining him as part of this exciting team," Lillo told the club's website.

"Manchester City has enjoyed much success over recent seasons and played a brand of beautiful football we have come to expect from this club and its manager.

"It's a pleasure to become a part of this group and I hope to make an important contribution to the club’s success going forwards."

City will restart their campaign after the COVID-19-enforced break against Arsenal on June 17.

Premier League

Connected: Arsenal boss Arteta talks favourite goals, players with Emmanuel of North London United

00:10:56

|

Yesterday at 16:33

Premier League

'Everything can happen', warns Guardiola as City keep title destiny in own hands

28/04/2024 at 21:31

Transfers

Arteta, Guardiola in frame to replace Xavi at Barcelona in 2025 - Paper Round

27/04/2024 at 09:11