Yenagoa, Nigeria – July 24, 2025 – Former Manchester City and Ivory Coast defender Kolo Touré has officially been named assistant manager under head coach Pep Guardiola, following a successful interim stint with the men’s first team during the Club World Cup.
The 44‑year‑old Ivorian, widely respected for his leadership and experience, earned the promotion after impressing City officials with his dedication while working with the Under‑18s. Speaking on his appointment, City’s Director of Football Hugo Viana said:
“Not only does he bring his immensely precious experience at football’s elite level, but he also has a deep connection with Manchester City… His optimism and positivity is hugely infectious.”
Touré, who joined City from Arsenal in 2009 and later played for Liverpool and Celtic, began his coaching career with roles at Celtic, Leicester under Brendan Rodgers, and a brief managerial spell at Wigan Athletic.
Throughout last season, he played a pivotal role in guiding City’s Under‑18s to the Premier League North title and an appearance in the FA Youth Cup final .
As part of a restructured coaching team, Kolo joins Pep Lijnders, former assistant to Jürgen Klopp, and set‑piece specialist James French, arriving as City prepares for a demanding season that includes domestic and international competitions.
