BARCELONA: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has undergone surgery in Barcelona for a back problem and the club considers he may not be back on duty until after next month’s international break.

A statement explained that Guardiola “has been suffering severe back pain lately and flew to Barcelona to undergo an emergency operation by Dr Mireia Illueca.”

Guardiola initial convalescence will be in Barcelona and team management duties will be taken over temporarily by Juanma Lillo, who has returned this year as assistant coach.

The 52-year-old will miss City’s trip to Sheffield United on Sunday as as well as the home clash against Fulham on September 2.

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