Bayern Munich defender Rafinha faces lengthy spell on the sidelines
Bayern Munich have been rocked by the news that defender Rafinha is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
The Brazilian suffered ligament damage to his left ankle in training on Saturday and is devastated that he will miss the start of the 2014-15 season.
"I'm very disappointed," Rafinha is quoted as saying by his club's official website.
"I had a really good preparation, and now this. I am very sad."
Rafinha was expected to be sold last summer but went on to establish himself as a first-team regular under new coach Pep Guardiola.
The 28-year-old's injury is therefore a major blow for the Bavarians, but the German champions do, at least, have the option of restoring Philipp Lahm to his more familiar role of right-back.
The World Cup winner was often utilized as a defensive midfielder during the 2013-14 season and continued to do so with his national side, before switching to full-back.
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