São Paulo defender Alex Telles is set to undergo surgery on his injured knee, the club has confirmed.
The Brazilian defender suffered a torn ACL in his right knee during a game against Flamengo on Saturday and will now be out for several months.
Telles was replaced by fellow defender Felipe Melo in the match at the Maracanã stadium.
The injury comes as a blow to São Paulo, who are currently fourth in the Serie A table.
The club's sporting director, Paulo Júnior, said: "We are very disappointed with this news.
"We have been working hard to get him back fit and healthy and it seems that we have not had enough time."
Telles,Campeonato Brasileiro Action who joined São Paulo from Santos in 2016, has made 95 appearances for the club and scored four goals.
He also played for Brazil at the World Cup in Russia last year.
São Paulo manager Dunga said he would miss the rest of the season but added: "I am confident that he will be back soon." The club's medical team will work closely with doctors to ensure that Telles receives the best possible treatment and rehabilitation after his surgery.
In the meantime, the club has appointed Brazilian midfielder Thiago Mendes as their new captain, with the hope that he can help lead the team through the difficult times ahead.