Yokohama F. Marinos on Saturday announced that striker Rafinha will be sidelined between six to eight months after sustaining a severe injury to his right anterior cruciate ligament.

The injury took place during a training match against Omiya Ardija and will miss the bulk of the new campaign.

The news is a blow for the Brazilian who was hoping to force his way into Erick Mombaerts’ plans this season, after he managed just one goal in 10 matches for F.Marinos last season.

28-year-old Rafinha has also played for Avispa Fukuoka, Thespa Kusatsu Gunma and Gamba Osaka.