Defensive Midfielder Luiz Gustavo has missed first team action since the game against Hamburg SV two weeks ago. The midfielder has developed a groin injury since then. The injury which seemed normal at the start, developed into a critical one for which a surgery was required. Hence Gustavo underwent a groin surgery yesterday rather than flying to Valencia with his team-mates.

It is now feared that the Brazilian midfielder could be out of action for a long time and with only five weeks to go before the Bundesliga goes on its winter break, the chances of the 25-year-old playing again this year appear to be very slim.

“It’s a painful loss,” said Bayern coach Jupp Heynckes inValencia. “I don’t know how long he is going to be out for.

“He is an important player in my system and I hope to have him back as soon as possible. He’s been having a good season.”

Gustavo, who joined Bayern from league rival Hoffenheim last year, has been a regular and an important figure for the Bavarian side, even keeping the league’s record signingJavi Martinezout on occasions.

His loss leaves Heynckes shorter on options for a busy schedule of matches between now and the winter break.