Coach Pep Guardiola was suddenly hospitalized for emergency surgery because of severe back pain and he will miss Man City’s next two Premier League matches.
The 52-year-old leader underwent an operation performed by Dr Mireia Illueca (a specialist in complex spine surgery) in Barcelona on August 22 and he is expected to stay in Catalonia to recuperate. .
Coach Pep Guardiola has had back problems for a long time and has undergone many surgeries. The Spaniard once had to ask assistant coach Juanma Lillo to support his coaching work in the journey to win the historic treble last season.
Coach Pep Guardiola had to have spine surgery and missed two Premier League matches (Image: AP).
With Pep Guardiola hospitalized this time, assistant Juanma Lillo will continue to take on the role of coaching Man City players in the next two matches against Sheffield United and Fulham in the Premier League.
“The Man City head coach recently suffered severe back pain and flew to Barcelona for emergency surgery performed by Dr. Mireia Illueca. The operation was successful and Pep will now recover and rehabilitate in Barcelona. .
In Pep’s absence, assistant coach Juanma Lillo will oversee first-team training on the training ground and will take over duties on the touchline until Pep’s return.
He is expected to return after the upcoming international break. Everyone at Man City wishes Pep a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing him again at the Etihad Stadium soon,” Man City announced on the club’s official website.
Man City have started the season perfectly with two wins, they beat Burnley and then Newcastle to take second place in the Premier League table (equals with Brighton but lost on goal difference). .