Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has been ruled out of the upcoming Champions League clash against Liverpool due to a hamstring injury, the Spanish club confirmed on Monday.

“After tests conducted today, our player Vinícius Júnior has been diagnosed by Real Madrid’s medical services with a hamstring injury in his left leg,” the club said in an official statement.

Spanish media report that the 24-year-old Brazilian is expected to be sidelined for nearly a month, which would also rule him out of the December 10 Champions League game against Atalanta.

The news comes as a significant blow for the defending European champions, who have struggled in their Champions League campaign this season. Vinícius, who played the full 90 minutes in Real Madrid’s 3-0 victory over Leganés in La Liga on Sunday, provided the assist for Kylian Mbappé’s opening goal in that match.

Vinícius has been in exceptional form this season, overshadowing Mbappé, Madrid’s high-profile summer signing. The winger, who finished second in the Ballon d’Or voting, has netted four goals in as many Champions League appearances and scored eight goals in 13 La Liga matches.

Real Madrid’s European campaign has been rocky, with two defeats in their last four matches. The team currently sits 18th in the expanded group table after recent losses to Lille (1-0) and AC Milan (3-1). Vinícius’ absence could further complicate their path to the knockout stages.

Wednesday’s clash at Anfield pits Real Madrid against a resurgent Liverpool side led by new coach Arne Slot. Liverpool are in impressive form, topping both the Champions League standings and the Premier League table.

Vinícius’ injury leaves Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti with limited attacking options as the team looks to salvage their European campaign against one of the strongest sides in the competition.