Coke’s Schalke debut ended in despair as the former Sevilla captain tore the cruciate ligament in his right knee against Bologna on Thursday.
Coke lasted 45 minutes of Schalke’s 2-1 win against Bologna but came off worse for wear from the challenge that led to his substitution, and tests have subsequently established damage to his right ACL.
“We’re shocked. Our thoughts are with Coke at this point, least of all because he had already settled in well here,” sporting director Christian Heidel told the Germans’ official website.
“We will support him however possible throughout the lay-off.”
The right-back, 29, only completed his move to Schalke from Sevilla earlier in the week but is now set for an extended spell on the sidelines.
