Tottenham star Dejan Kulusevski has been working hard to return to full fitness.
Roberto De Zerbi dropped a big hint that Dejan Kulusevski is nearing a return from injury after naming him in Tottenham Hotspur’s final 25-man Premier League squad.
Dejan Kulusevski has not played for Spurs since May 2025 due to a persistent knee problem. Roberto De Zerbi has previously urged caution over the creative midfielder’s comeback, but his inclusion suggests the player remains part of Tottenham’s plans for the season.
The Sweden international has endured a serious knee problem, which ruled him out throughout last season. The 26-year-old has recently been seen training at Hotspur Way as he slowly but steadily works towards returning to action. However, ahead of the Lilywhites’ trip to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, De Zerbi has given an update on Kulusevski’s fitness that will not go down well within the fanbase.
De Zerbi reveals Dejan Kulusevski has suffered a minor setback in his recovery from knee injury
Kulusevski started training with the team at the start of the week. Now, De Zerbi revealed that the Swede did not train over the last two days due to a ‘small problem’, but he suggested that it is nothing serious.
“Kulusevski started with us at the beginning of the week, and then for the last two days, a small, small problem stopped him, but I think he’s in a good way. It’s going very well,” De Zerbi said in his press conference (h/t Football London).
“I already said the medical staff is very high level. So, I think we can be positive with him. I’m looking forward to having Deki in the squad.”
When asked if the small problem would keep Kulusevski out of training for long, the Italian tactician said: “No, no. Nothing of importance.”
Kulusevski’s return is not imminent
Kulusevski has been out of action for more than 15 months, so it is going to take him time to regain match rhythm and sharpness. The Swedish star is in for a massive campaign at White Hart Lane, with Spurs missing his incisive passing, creativity, energy and leadership on the pitch.
De Zerbi says Kulusevski’s setback is “small” and nothing important, which should ease fears within the fanbase. Having been out for so long, our fans are desperate to see the 26-year-old back in action as quickly as possible and lift the team’s morale. All in all, there’s no doubt Kulusevski would represent a new signing when he returns to action.
