Paulo Dybala is set to miss the remainder of the season after AS Roma confirmed on Thursday that the Argentine forward will undergo surgery in an attempt to resolve a persistent thigh injury.

In an official statement, Roma announced that Dybala “will undergo surgery in the coming days following an injury to his left semitendinosus tendon,” which he sustained during Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Cagliari.

“The player and the club have mutually agreed that this is the best course of action for an optimal recovery,” the club added.

While Roma have not specified a timeline for his return, with only nine matches left in the current Serie A campaign, the 31-year-old is almost certain to be sidelined until next season.

Major Blow for Roma’s Champions League Hopes

Dybala’s absence represents a significant setback for Roma, who have experienced a remarkable turnaround since Claudio Ranieri’s return as head coach in November. Once relegation candidates, they have become the most in-form team in Serie A.

The Argentine has been instrumental in Roma’s resurgence, contributing eight goals and four assists across all competitions. His creativity and attacking prowess would have been crucial in their push for a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.

Roma currently sit four points behind fourth-placed Bologna, having won their last six league matches. Under Ranieri, they have dropped just six points in 13 Serie A fixtures, last suffering a league defeat before Christmas, away at Como.