Germany's Low suspects Mustafi suffered muscle tear

A well-deserved victory came at a cost.

Shkodran Mustafi limped off the pitch during the first half of Germany's 5-1 win versus Azerbaijan in 2018 World Cup qualifying, and, speaking after Sunday's game, Joachim Low said the German centre-back appeared to tear a muscle.

"With Mustafi it seems that it is some muscle tear or some muscle fibre tear," the manager declared, according to the Guardian. "In any case it could force him to a longer break."

Mustafi was replaced by Matthias Ginter in the 36th minute, only two minutes after Azerbaijan produced a shocking equaliser. But Germany found its footing in the second half and manufactured four goals. Die Mannschaft ended 2018 World Cup qualifying with 10 victories from 10 games, finishing 11 points clear of Northern Ireland, which will play in the second round.

At Arsenal, Mustafi boasts five Premier League appearances this season, most recently playing in the Gunners' 2-0 win against Brighton & Hove Albion.