Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger is reportedly facing 12 weeks on the sidelines after suffering a thigh injury.
The centre-back suffered the injury in training this week after retuning from international duty with Germany.
Rudiger featured in both matches as Germany suffered a stunning defeat to Slovakia in World Cup qualifying, before getting their campaign back on track with an unconvincing win over Northern Ireland.
A statement from Madrid read: “Following tests conducted on Toni Rudiger by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his left leg. Awaiting further development.”
While Madrid have not confirmed a timescale for his return, multiple reports in the Spanish press have claimed Rudiger faces an absence of 10 to 12 weeks.
A 12-week lay-off would keep Rudiger out until the LaLiga clash with Celta Vigo on December 7.
The former Chelsea defender will miss the derby with Atletico Madrid on September 27 and the first Clasico of the season in Barcelona on October 26 among a host of other league fixtures. In addition, he will be unavailable for five Champions League games, including meetings with Juventus and Liverpool.
Madrid have won three straight games to start the new LaLiga season under Xabi Alonso. They visit Real Sociedad on Saturday.
