Paulinho set for months on the sidelines
Bayer Leverkusen have suffered an injury blow ahead of their DFB-Pokal final against Bayern München, with Paulinho ruled out for several months.
Paulinho has been ruled out of Bayer Leverkusen's DFB-Pokal final clash with Bayern München on Saturday.
The 19-year-old sustained a torn cruciate ligament in training on Tuesday and will be sidelined for several months, which means he will also miss the resumption of the Europa League in August.
"It's an incredible shame and almost tragic that Paulinho cannot be part of the highlight of the season in Berlin and also misses the Europa League in August," said Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes in a statement.
"His bad injury gives us even more motivation to win the cup at the weekend for him as well. We wish him every strength and a quick recovery," he added.
Paulinho has made 19 appearances for Leverkusen this season with three goals and two assists to his name.