Antonio Conte is set to remain in Italy and hand Tottenham first-team duties back over to Cristian Stellini, the club have confirmed.
The Spurs boss returned to the dugout for the weekend defeat to Leicester and was present for the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clash against AC Milan in his home country on Tuesday, which his side lost 1-0 at the San Siro. Conte had missed the match against Manchester City after undergoing surgery to remove his gall bladder earlier this month.
Tottenham issued a statement on Thursday which read: "Following a routine post-operation check in Italy yesterday, Antonio Conte will remain at his family home to recover from his recent surgery. Health is the most important consideration and everyone at the Club wishes him well. Cristian Stellini will assume First Team duties."
Conte released his own statement after the news, which read: "My great sense of responsibility towards the club, the players, the staff and the fans brought about my comeback on field.
"Sadly I underestimated the procedure, which wasn't a routine operation but a sudden and serious emergency. My body has suffered my impatience, and now I am forced to stop until my entire recovery.
"Anyone who knows me understands what a burden this is for me, but it is necessary. Come on you Spurs."
Conte wasted little time in getting back to work after his operation, which was swiftly carried out after he suffered from "severe abdominal pain". A club statement read at the time: "Antonio recently became unwell with severe abdominal pain. Following a diagnosis of cholecystitis, he will be undergoing surgery to remove his gallbladder and will return following a period of recuperation. Everyone at the club wishes him well."
The Italian coach was back to work just nine days later but was told to take it easy. His assistant Stellini said: "Antonio is back. This morning he was on the pitch with us. He has to take it easy for a bit but we were so happy to meet him again. He spent time hugging everyone."
The following day Conte was in the dugout as Spurs were thrashed 4-1 by Leicester at the King Power Stadium. Speaking after the defeat, Stellini said: "It's good for all the team and everyone to have Antonio back. It's good for him but he needs to be careful and he can't use all his energy.
"We have to step up and take that place. We spoke during the game and Antonio felt the difference. He had to be careful but he wanted to be back."
Tottenham's next match is at home to West Ham on Sunday before welcoming Conte's former club Chelsea the following week, though it appears no timeframe has been set for his return.
Conte has endured a difficult season both professionally and personally. Away from the field, three of his close friends have passed away, including Tottenham fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone and ex-Italy and Juventus team-mate Gianluca Vialli.
On the field, Spurs have performed below expectations but are still fifth in the Premier League table, just two points behind Newcastle, though the Magpies do have a game in hand. Tottenham's Champions League second leg against Milan is due to take place on March 8.
