Following Werder Bremen's 3-1 win agaist Schalke 04, it was confirmed that Philipp Bargfrede had torn the meniscus in his knee for a seventh time.
The club announced the news on Monday morning, after an MRI scan in Bremen revealed the extent of the damage. They also said he will be operated on this week.
A bitter blow
Bargfrede has been one of Bremen's most important players this term, in what has been a difficult campaign for Viktor Skripnik's side.
He featured in 14 of their 18 Bundesliga game so far and all of the Northerners' cup ties, where they have reached the quarter-final stage.
The 26-year-old recently made his 150th appearance for the club across 12 years, further evidence of his unfortunate run of injuries.
Who will take his place?
Fortunately for Skripnik, central midfield is an area where Bremen are not lacking players with plenty of players to step in for Bargfrede.
Clemens Fritz rolled back the years on Sunday, putting in a vintage performance in central midfield that was more befitting of a 23-year-old rather than a retiring 35-year-old.
However, the issue is now over who will take the spot beside Fritz and replace Bargfrede.
Zlatko Junuzovic is the obvious candidate but the Austrian has been in streaky form since last year's incredible set of performances sent him into view of Europe's elite.
Felix Kroos, Lukas Fröde, Florian Grillitsch and Maximilian Eggestein have all featured at central midfield, though it looks like Junuzovic will be the preferred choice.
Skripnik has his say
Speaking to the club website, the boss said: "The diagnosis is of course a real blow. I hope that he recovers quickly. Philipp is an important player and valuable team member."
He added, "However, we have good alternatives at our disposal that are now tasked with filling his shoes."
Bremen's next game is at home to high-flying Hertha BSC on Saturday.