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Real Madrid confirmed on Monday that forward Vinícius Júnior has suffered a hamstring injury that will keep him out of the team’s crucial Champions League match against Liverpool on Wednesday.
The 24-year-old Brazilian is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks, according to reports.
Vinícius, who had played the full 90 minutes in Madrid’s 3-0 league win over Leganés on Sunday, showed no signs of injury after the match, and coach Carlo Ancelotti did not indicate any concerns at the time.
However, the injury is believed to have occurred following his return from international duty with Brazil, where he played in draws against Venezuela and Uruguay.
The loss of Vinícius is a huge blow for Madrid, who are second in LaLiga and in desperate need of a victory at Anfield after a shaky start to their Champions League campaign, with two losses from their opening four games.
The team is also preparing for the FIFA Club World Cup next month.
Vinícius has been in strong form this season, with 12 goals and 8 assists in 18 league appearances.
His absence will be felt as Madrid face a tough few weeks ahead.
