Pep Guardiola will be unavailable for Manchester City’s upcoming two Premier League matches as he recently underwent back surgery in Barcelona. According to a statement from the Premier League champions, Guardiola had been dealing with persistent back pain, leading to the need for emergency surgery in Barcelona. The operation was successful, but his recovery will continue in the same city. Consequently, the 52-year-old manager is not anticipated to return to the touchline for City until after the international break. This means he will miss the upcoming games against Sheffield United this Sunday and Fulham on September 2. During his absence, Juanma Lillo, who recently rejoined the club as an assistant manager after his stint as Al Sadd manager in Qatar, will oversee training and matches for the treble winners.
In another development, Alexis Mac Allister’s red card, which he received against Bournemouth, has been overturned by the FA following a successful appeal by Liverpool. Mac Allister was shown a straight red card by referee Thomas Bramall for a challenge on Ryan Christie just before the hour mark during Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth at Anfield, with Liverpool leading 2-1 at the time. Initially facing a three-match ban for upcoming games against Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Wolves, he will no longer serve this suspension.
Lastly, Mason Mount will be absent from Manchester United’s Premier League matches against Nottingham Forest and Arsenal due to a “minor” injury, as confirmed by the club. This injury was sustained during Saturday’s 2-0 loss to Tottenham. The England midfielder is expected to be out of action until the international break next month.
