Man City confirm Pep Guardiola sidelined for almost a month after surgery

Pep Guardiola will miss Manchester City’s next two games after having "emergency surgery" on a back problem.

City confirmed on Tuesday that Guardiola has been suffering with severe back pain and decided to go under the knife in Barcelona to fix the issue.

Guardiola has been sidelined for around three weeks, though City only play twice during that time due to the upcoming international break. City

City are away at Sheffield United this Sunday before hosting Fulham on September 2. Guardiola’s assistant, Juanma Lillo, will take charge of the team during that time.

A trip to face West Ham on September 16 could be Guardiola’s first game back.

A statement read: “Pep Guardiola has today undergone a routine operation on a back problem.

The Manchester City boss has been suffering with severe back pain for some time lately, and flew out to Barcelona for emergency surgery performed by Dr Mireia Illueca. The surgery was a success, and Pep will now recover and rehabilitate in Barcelona.

“In his absence, assistant manager Juanma Lillo will oversee coaching of the first team on the training field and will assume duties on the touchline until Pep’s return. He is expected to return after the forthcoming international break.

“Everyone at Manchester City wishes Pep a speedy recovery, and look forward to seeing him back in Manchester soon.”