Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova will have emergency surgery on Thursday morning to remove a new cancerous tumor detected during a routine check-up.
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The 44-year-old went under the knife in November last year to have a similar growth removed from his parotid gland before being given a clean bill of health to return to his duties as Pep Guardiola's assistant.
However, another tumor was discovered during a standard examination on Tuesday, with widespread reports in the Catalan and Spanish media saying Vilanova had suffered a relapse.
Barca confirmed the speculation on Wednesday afternoon in an official statement from the club's medical staff, while later on, president Sandro Rosell and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta announced the news to the public.
Vilanova will remain in his post while he recovers his health, with assistant coach Jordi Roura being handed the first-team reins in the interim.
The statement read: "An extension of the pathology has been detected in [Vilanova's] parotid gland. The manager requires surgery which he will undergo this Thursday. He is expected to remain in hospital for three to four days.
"After the surgery, Francesc 'Tito' Vilanova will undergo chemotherapy and radiation treatment for approximately six weeks. During this time, and depending on how well he recovers, Vilanova's treatment may be compatible with his work life.
"Keeping in line with the patient's wishes, we urge respect and privacy during this process."
Rosell said: "First of all, we wish to offer our unconditional support to Tito and his family. The most important thing is that he recovers and is given the tranquility to do that.
"He is very strong and we are convinced he will soon be back with us. The players and staff are all totally behind him. The club has full confidence in its technical staff."
Zubizarreta added: "Our project allows us to face these things naturally. Tito is not here, okay Jordi is here, and the rest of the staff are also here to make sure that everyone works to the best level possible.
"This situation has hit us before, with Tito last year and Eric Abidal. We will do the same as we have done previously when we have faced these situations."
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