Bayern Munich right-back Rafinha will face a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffered in a torn ligament in training, it has been confirmed.
The Brazilian suffered the injury to his ankle on Saturday morning, and fears are that it is a tear of the ligament which would be devastating this close to the season start.
Speaking of his frustration to the clubs official website, he admitted, "I'm very disappointed. I had a really good pre-season, and now this. I am very sad."
The 28-year old was rumoured to be on his way out of the club last summer, but the transformation of Philip Lahm into a defensive midfielder gave him the opportunity to prove himself last year, which he did, featuring 28 times in the league, collecting seven assists for the Bavarians.
The injury leaves the Champions desperately short at the right full-back position, although Jerome Boateng can play there, the obvious choice will be to drop Lahm back there. Despite him flourishing in midfield last season, it is a position they are blessed in with the likes of Martinez, Kroos, Schweinsteiger, and Thiago Alcantara able to play there amongst others.
A new signing in the position is a possibility, but the most likely scenario is Pep Guardiola will work with what he has, especially with just two weeks until they kick the season off at home to Wolfsburg.