Guardiola's Recovery Break: Lillo Leads Manchester City

Manchester City's head coach, Pep Guardiola, is recovering from back surgery and will not manage the team during the Premier League match against Sheffield United.

The surgery was necessary to address a long-standing back problem that Guardiola has been dealing with for over a decade.

The back pain worsened after Manchester City's victory over Newcastle, leading Guardiola to fly to Barcelona for the emergency surgery.

City's official statement confirmed that the surgery was successful and Guardiola is now recovering and rehabilitating in Barcelona.

The exact duration of Guardiola's absence is uncertain, but the club hopes for his return in mid-September after the international break.

Manchester City expresses well wishes for Guardiola's speedy recovery and looks forward to his return to Manchester.

During his absence, Guardiola will miss at least two matches: the game against Sheffield United and the home match against Fulham on September 2.

If his recovery progresses as planned, Guardiola is expected to be back in the dugout when Manchester City faces Wolves on September 16.

In Guardiola's absence, his assistant coach, Juanma Lillo, is taking charge of the team. Lillo has been overseeing training sessions and handling press conferences.

Lillo will lead the team from the sidelines during the away match at Sheffield United and the home game against Fulham.