Despite undergoing back surgery and currently being in rehabilitation, Manchester City's head coach Pep Guardiola (52) remains completely dedicated to the upcoming Premier League match against Sheffield United on Sunday, according to assistant manager Juanma Lillo (57).

Guardiola is presently recovering from surgery in Barcelona and will not be present on the touchline for Manchester City's league fixtures against Sheffield and Fulham.

"The contact is continuous; Pep is watching Sheffield right now.

"What's important is his health. It doesn't keep him from being who he is. He's fully focused on the match," Lillo told reporters ahead of Sunday's clash at Bramall Lane.

"He is telling us the surgery has been successful; his recovery has to take the necessary time. He feels fine."

Despite Pep still being involved in the City set-up, Lillo said he would be delivering the team talk to the players in their match against Sheffield United.

"We won't do a video conference because Pep doesn't want it," Lillo said.

Lillo praised City's new 55-million pound ($69.41 million) signing Jeremy Doku (21), saying: "The team is at a good level, you've seen him (Doku); he has specific qualities. He can definitely help.

"Every time a new player arrives, we think they are going to bring something and help the team globally. It's not about him and placing responsibility on him…"

City's assistant manager also highlighted the importance of Portuguese international Bernardo Silva (29), who signed a contract extension until 2026 this week.

Silva joined City in 2017 and has made over 300 appearances in a trophy-laden spell at the club.

"Bernardo is that kind of player who, in order to look at his importance, you look at his past. His importance is plain to see," Lillo said, adding that Silva was "good to go" after missing two matches due to injury.