Star Carlton forward Harry McKay will be sidelined indefinitely due to unspecified personal reasons.
After being a late withdrawal from last week's defeat to Hawthorn, the Blues said McKay was dealing with illness.
But Carlton coach Michael Voss has revealed McKay took some time away from the club.
"Obviously was dealing with a few things during the week," Voss said of McKay.
"Took some time away from the club, but obviously felt best that he doesn't play this week, so we'll give him the space that he needs to be able to work through a few things.
"Not necessarily put a timeframe on it, but hopefully be back soon."
Voss said McKay returned to the club on Wednesday after a "few days away".
"Used the opportunity just to create a little bit of space, obviously now we respect his privacy," he said.
"Us as a team, we get on with things.
"It's always player over performance in terms of just being able to look after the person first, and that's what the position we've taken.
"He'll get the support he needs.
"As a footy club, clearly we wrap our arms around him, as I hope the whole football industry does, so we'll give him the time that he needs."
McKay's absence will be a major blow for Carlton's hopes of turning around a concerning 0-2 start to the season.
After suffering a shock loss to wooden spoon fancies Richmond when the Blues led by 41 points, Carlton immediately came under pressure.
The Blues face the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Friday night in what already looms as a crucial match for both sides.
Carlton also have young forward Elijah Hollands on the sidelines after he elected to take leave due to personal reasons before the start of the season.