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In a twist no one saw coming, not even the defenders of the opposing teams, Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s seasoned manager, will be absent from the touchline for the next two Premier League clashes against Sheffield United and Fulham.
Guardiola, who’s 52 but moves with the energy of a man half his age, recently suffered from “severe” back pain. Apparently, managing one of the world’s best football clubs can be a real pain in the back! He jetted off to Barcelona for a procedure that was simultaneously an “emergency” yet “minor” operation.
City fans will have to brace themselves as their team travels to face Sheffield United on Sunday, followed by a home game against Fulham on 2 September at Etihad Stadium. All eyes will be on the bench, but not for tactical changes, instead to see who’s leading in Pep’s place.
Guardiola should be back in action after the international break, likely full of new tactical insights gained from watching his team play on TV.
Assistant manager Juanma Lillo has been handed the steering wheel, responsible for both training the team and being the main man on the touchline. No pressure, Juanma!
Manchester City declared that the operation, deftly performed by Dr. Mireia Illueca, was a “success.” The boss who led City to a glorious Treble will “recover and rehabilitate in Barcelona,” presumably enjoying some paella on the side.
City’s official statement also included heartfelt well wishes: “Everyone at Manchester City wishes Pep a speedy recovery, and looks forward to arguing with his tactical choices soon.”
Last season was stellar for Guardiola and City, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and even nabbing their first Champions League trophy. This season, they’re off to a strong start, sitting second in the Premier League, equal on six points with Brighton at the top and Arsenal trailing in third. Victories over Burnley and Newcastle set the stage, and let’s not forget the thrilling Uefa Super Cup win against Sevilla, a nail-biting 5-4 victory on penalties in Athens.
Now, without Guardiola, City faces a challenging but exciting time. Will Lillo step up to the plate, or will he miss Guardiola’s guidance? Only time and football will tell! Either way, the next two games promise drama, excitement, and, hopefully, a quick recovery for Manchester City’s iconic manager.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pep Guardiola
What matches will Pep Guardiola miss due to his back surgery?
Pep Guardiola will miss Manchester City’s Premier League games against Sheffield United and Fulham.
Who will take over Manchester City in Guardiola’s absence?
Assistant manager Juanma Lillo will take over first-team training and lead from the touchline during matches in Guardiola’s absence.
Where was Guardiola’s surgery performed, and who conducted it?
The surgery was carried out in Barcelona by Dr. Mireia Illueca, and Manchester City stated it was a “success.”
When is Guardiola expected to return to his duties?
Guardiola is expected to return to duty after the international break.
How is Manchester City performing in the Premier League so far this season?
City sits second in the Premier League in the early stages of this campaign, level on six points with leaders Brighton and Arsenal in third, after beating Burnley and Newcastle in their opening two games.
What was the nature of Guardiola’s back problem?
Guardiola had been suffering from what City described as “severe” back pain, necessitating a “minor” but “emergency” operation.
Who wished Guardiola a speedy recovery?
The statement from Manchester City included well wishes for Pep, with the words: “Everyone at Manchester City wishes Pep a speedy recovery, and looks forward to seeing him back in Manchester soon.”
What other recent successes have Manchester City achieved?
They recently won the Uefa Super Cup by beating Europa League winners Sevilla 5-4 on penalties in Athens, following their success in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League last season.
More about Pep Guardiola
- Manchester City Official Website
- Premier League Standings
- UEFA Super Cup Overview
- Profile of Dr. Mireia Illueca
- Pep Guardiola’s Career Achievements
- Overview of Sheffield United vs Manchester City
- Fulham’s Premier League Performance
- Juanma Lillo’s Coaching Career
8 comments
Terible news about Pep but glad the surgery was a success, what will happen in the next two matches…nervous.
Can Lillo make a difference? interesting times ahead for City, excited to see what happens nxt.
As a United fan, I shoud be happy but I respect Pep a lot. Wishing him a quick recovery.
5-4 penalties against Sevilla! Epic match, but this back surgery thing is concerning. Wishing speedy recovery to Guardiola.
Wow! I didn’t know Guardiola had back issues. Hope he gets well soon, we need him. Go City!!!
this is why we need robtic coaches, they don’t need surgeries haha, get well soon Pep.
who’s Juanma Lillo? Never heard of him before. Hope he can keep the ship steady till Pep’s back.
Minor or not, surgery is always scary. Get well soon Pep! and great article, loved the humor in it, made my day.