Roma’s chances of securing a Champions League spot have been dealt a significant blow with the news that Paulo Dybala will be out for six weeks due to a knee injury. 

Dybala underwent surgery in Rome on Friday to repair a complete longitudinal tear of the external meniscus.

Dybala, 32, had been struggling with knee problems since January, missing four of Roma’s last five games. He was initially expected to return to action soon, but the latest injury setback has dashed those hopes.

“The initial diagnosis was a meniscal injury, although there were no clear signs on the MRI,” said Professor Piero Paolo Mariani, who performed the surgery.

The injury means Dybala will miss seven Serie A matches and the Europa League round of 16 tie against Bologna.

Roma are currently fourth in Serie A, 16 points behind leaders Inter Milan, but only two points behind Napoli in third.

Dybala’s absence is a significant loss for Roma, who have been relying on him to fire them into the top four.

The Argentine has scored only two goals in 17 Serie A appearances this season, but his experience and quality will be sorely missed.