Hoffenheim have confirmed that defender Niklas Süle will be out for the remainder of the season with after damaging his anterior cruciate ligament.
The 19-year old was substituted in the opening 10 minutes in Friday’s Bundesliga game against Eintracht Frankfurt, which the hosts won 3-2 thanks to a late goal from Roberto Firmino.
The injury is a huge blow to Hoffenheim who currently find themselves in the top half of the table on 23 points.
Süle has featured in all of his side’s 15 Bundesliga matches this season, proving to be an integral part of the defence alongside new signing Ermin Bičakčić.
Süle has also represented Germany at Under-21 level and Hoffenheim’s sporting director Alexander Rosen admitted that the injury is a huge blow.
“We’re all devastated for Niklas. He is a great lad who has undergone an incredible development so far,” said Rosen. “We will support him in every way we can and help him see through this challenging phase in his career.”