MEXICO CITY, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Mexico and Club America center-back Nestor Araujo faces an extended period on the sidelines after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, the Liga MX side said on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old sustained the knee injury while training on Monday and scans on Tuesday confirmed his worst fears.

"Our player is being evaluated to determine his definitive treatment," America said in a social media post.

Local media reported that the defender would likely undergo surgery in the coming days before facing a recovery period of six to nine months.

Araujo, who has been capped 67 times for Mexico's national team, has made 35 first-team appearances for America since his June 2022 move from Celta Vigo.

America are currently third in the 18-team Liga MX standings with 14 points from seven outings, two points behind leaders San Luis.