Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior has reportedly been ruled out for up to six weeks with a muscular injury.

The Brazilian pulled up with an injury issue in the opening stages of Friday's 1-0 win over Celta Vigo, and while he attempted to play on, he was eventually replaced by Joselu in the 18th minute.

Carlo Ancelotti initially played down fears that the injury would sideline Vinicius for an extended period, suggesting that it was a minor issue.

The Real Madrid boss admitted that Vinicius would likely miss Saturday's home meeting with Getafe, but he was hopeful that he would return after the international break.

However, according to The Athletic, further assessment has indicated that the thigh problem could be worse than originally feared.

In a separate update, journalist Miguel Angel Diaz has stated that Vinicius is expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks, which will come as a significant blow to Real Madrid.

The 23-year-old is likely to miss La Liga games against Getafe, Real Sociedad, Atletico Madrid, Las Palmas and Girona.

Vinicius is also set to miss at least one Champions League game, with the opening match set to take place the week commencing September 18.

Brazil will also have to cope without the services of one of their star players for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bolivia and Peru.

News of Vinicius' absence represents another setback for Real Madrid, who already have a growing list of absentees to contend with.

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao both sustained anterior cruciate ligament injuries earlier this month and are set to miss the majority of the 2023-24 campaign.

Summer signing Arda Guler is yet to make his debut after picking up an injury in pre-season, while Ferland Mendy is also sidelined for Ancelotti's side.

Despite being hampered by injury issues, Real Madrid have made an impressive start to the campaign, recording three consecutive victories to move to the top of the La Liga table.