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Trent Alexander-Arnold faces up to two months on the sidelines in yet another setback during what has been a terrible beginning to his Real Madrid stint.
The 26-year-old has sustained a hamstring problem that casts serious doubt over his availability for an emotionally-charged return to Anfield when Madrid take on Liverpool in the Champions League on November 4.
The Madrid ace also appears destined to miss the season's opening El Clasico against Barcelona on the weekend of October 26, as well as the forthcoming England international break, dealing a further hammer blow to his World Cup aspirations.
Alexander-Arnold hobbled off within five minutes of Real Madrid's Champions League encounter with Marseille on Tuesday after pulling up injured.
The England full-back posted on social media: "Will be back as soon as possible stronger than before. See you soon Madridistas."
Alexander-Arnold's Madrid journey has proven challenging thus far, with the defender making just two La Liga starts whilst rotating responsibilities with Dani Carvajal.
Carvajal came on for Alexander-Arnold against Marseille but was subsequently dismissed as Madrid fought back from 1-0 behind to secure a 2-1 victory.
Real Madrid confirmed in a statement: "Following tests carried out today by the Real Madrid medical services on our player, Trent Alexander-Arnold, he has been diagnosed with a muscle injury to the biceps femoris in his left leg. Further updates will follow."
Madrid is hopeful that Alexander-Arnold's robust physical condition will expedite his recovery, potentially seeing him back in action within six weeks rather than the initially projected two months.
However, Alexander-Arnold's summer was far from typical, having represented Real Madrid in the Club World Cup, and, like many of his fellow competitors, he has grappled with muscle injuries in the early stages of the season.
Chelsea forward Liam Delap is another casualty of the tournament, suffering a similar muscle injury, making it a challenging start for Alexander-Arnold at the Bernabeu.
England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted him from the latest squad to face Andorra and Serbia, suggesting he now trails behind the likes of Reece James and Tino Livramento in the selection hierarchy.
Alexander-Arnold must now focus on regaining his form and fitness if he hopes to secure his spot in England's squad for next summer's World Cup.
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