The 31-year-old has had a frustrating time with injuries since joining City in 2007 and exacerbated his knee problem against Stoke in February.

The Bulgarian told Trud Daily: "My season is over.

"I wanted to play in several matches at the end of the championship but the doctors said I should take a rest for three more weeks.

"I am disappointed and at times even desperate. Deep inside I do not give up and hope to overcome this nightmare."

Petrov's future at Eastlands is also unclear after he rejected the offer of a one-year extension.