Juventus Striker Vlahovic Faces Extended Absence from Groin Injury

The Serbian forward Dusan Vlahovic will be sidelined well into next year, Juventus announced on Monday, after he sustained a groin injury in their 2-1 victory against Cagliari on the weekend.

He left the pitch in the opening half of the Saturday match in Turin, with the club stating that examinations on Monday uncovered a severe muscle injury in his left groin.

The club noted that more medical assessments are needed to decide on the optimal recovery plan.

Italian outlets indicate that Vlahovic is unlikely to return before February next year.

This term, Vlahovic has found the net six times for Juventus, including three goals in Serie A and three in the Champions League.

Over the past month, the 25-year-old has secured his role as the main striker again, following the clubs summer efforts to transfer him out, given his contract expires at the seasons close.

Guided by ex-Italy manager Luciano Spalletti, Juventus hold seventh position in Serie A, trailing frontrunners AC Milan and Napoli by five points.