The talented forward faces an extended absence after failing to recover from a knee issue in time for the tournament.
The N17 faithful must wait significantly longer to see their dynamic attacker return. Winger Dejan Kulusevski remains completely sidelined after suffering a patella injury back in May 2025, after former boss Ange Postecoglou had initially dismissed the physical setback as a minor issue. However, multiple surgeries and recovery setbacks forced him to miss Tottenham’s struggling 2025-26 season where they survived a near-relegation.
This arduous recovery process carries heavy consequences, and the attacker had publicly set his sights on flying to the United States for the 2026 World Cup.
Jonas Werner details complex patella recovery as Swedish national team doctor addresses Kulusevski long injury story
The national team medical staff lifted the lid regarding this absence. “It has been a long story,” Swedish doctor Jonas Werner explained via Sportbladet.“Dejan has done everything to get ready to play World Cup football again,” the doctor who has served since 2021 stated. “Now he was not ready. This is because he has not played football for over a year.”
The medical assessments pointed in one direction due to the unique nature of the knee. “They are difficult to treat,” Werner clarified regarding patella complications. “Cartilage has no blood supply and no nerves. They do not heal in the usual way.” Furthermore, the knee injury sits where immense physical strain occurs.
The structural mechanics complicate rehabilitation significantly.“The kneecap slides back and forth over the femur,” Werner noted. “An enormous compressive force is developed. It is likely that his injury has not healed enough for him to cope with that strain yet.” Fortunately, the player receives help from the North Londoners to ensure recovery.
The medical coaching team remains highly optimistic.“He won’t give up hope,” Werner concluded.He is getting plenty of help from the club and others who are helping him with his rehabilitation. I have good hopes that he will play football again.” The Lilywhites desperately need his exceptional top tier quality back next term.