Bayern Munich will be without central defender Martin Demichelis for up to two months after he damaged ankle ligaments in training.

The Argentinian tore ligaments in his right ankle in an innocuous challenge in training and will need an operation next week, followed by six or seven weeks of rest.

Let's just hope that the healing process goes perfectly and we can have him back as soon as possible.
Bayern director of Sport, Christian Nerlinger

Bayern coach Louis van Gaal therefore only has three central defenders to choose from for his side's first Bundesliga match of the season at Hoffenheim on Saturday. Youngsters Holger Badstuber and Breno are vying for a position alongside Daniel van Buyten for the first two months of the season.

"The length of this injury break is obviously bitter," said Bayern's director of sport Christian Nerlinger on the club's official website. "Martin has trained very intensely and played in the starting XI against Neckarelz.

Let's just hope that the healing process goes perfectly and we can have him back as soon as possible."