Pep Guardiola To Miss Two Man City Games After Emergency Back Surgery

Pep Guardiola will not be in the dugout for Manchester City's next two EPL games after he underwent "emergency surgery" in Barcelona to treat a back injury.

Pep Guardiola will not be in the dugout for Manchester City's next two Premier League matches.

The 52-year-old City manager underwent surgery in Barcelona this week to treat a back injury.

City described the procedure as "emergency surgery" in a club statement issued on Tuesday but also said that it had been a "routine operation".

Guardiola will now continue his rehabilitation in Barcelona before returning to England next month.

In his absence, assistant manager Juanma Lillo will take charge of City's games against Sheffield United and Fulham.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss his team's next two matches :: IMAGO/News Images/Mark Cosgrove

Guardiola is expected to be back by the time City visit West Ham on September 16.

City's statement read in full: "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."