Eriksson, a hugely popular ex-boss of City, told Swedish Radio P1 of his terminal health update yesterday which he was himself given after fainting on a 5k run.
The 75-year-old Swede was the first foreign coach to manage England and led the Three Lions to the quarter-finals of the 2002 and 2006 World Cup as well as the 2004 Euros.
Almost a year to the day after he left his job with the FA, he arrived at the Etihad Stadium amid huge excitement in Manchester among City fans.
He set about improving the squad, merging new signings like Martin Petrov, Elano, Vedran Corluka and Geovanni with academy starlets such as Micah Richards, Nedum Onuoha, Kasper Schmeichel and Michael Johnson.
Eriksson said in our CITY+ documentary, ‘The Sven Year’, that in one of his first interactions with fans he was told to do two things – beat United home and away, something he managed via a 1-0 home victory and 2-1 away triumph.
However, his spell in charge only lasted one term as we ended the campaign in ninth spot in the Premier League and he was replaced by Mark Hughes shortly after his departure.
Speaking at a media conference on Friday, Guardiola spoke highly of Eriksson and offered him the support of the club.
“Of course, sad news,” said the manager.
“A true gentleman. He was here in the England national team and with other countries, it’s really sad news.
“I admire the courage to explain the situation.
“He’ll be with his loved ones. I’m pretty sure he’ll battle the doctors and everyone to maybe find a solution and extend the spirit, the battle.
“On behalf of Manchester City, all of us offer him huge, huge support. Of course anything we can do, we will do it.”
