OFFICIAL: Guardiola has today undergone a routine operation on a back problem

OFFICIAL: Pep Guardiola has undergone back surgery and will be absent for Manchester City until after the international break next month.

In a statement announcing the news on Tuesday, the club stated: "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."

The 52-year-old has been in the dugout for opening Premier League victories over Burnley and Newcastle, along with travelling to Greece for the UEFA Supercup, but will miss upcoming fixtures.