Tottenham have handed Dejan Kulusevski a boost by naming him in their 25-man Premier League squad for the new season, a sign the Swede may finally be nearing his long-awaited comeback. The 25-year-old hasn’t featured since the Europa League final in May 2025, having battled a stubborn knee problem that cost him spells under Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor and Ange Postecoglou alike.
He’s since been spotted back in training at Hotspur Way, carefully building his fitness. New boss Roberto De Zerbi, though, has been cautious about rushing him back, wary of triggering another setback given how serious the injury has been. Still, including him in the squad shows De Zerbi sees Kulusevski as part of his plans once he’s properly ready.
Mohammed Kudus also makes the squad after shaking off a thigh issue, having already come off the bench in the 2-0 loss to Newcastle. With Mikey Moore now out on loan, Kudus and eventually Kulusevski could give De Zerbi much-needed width and options going forward.
Richarlison, meanwhile, misses out entirely — no surprise given De Zerbi has already confirmed the Brazilian wants out of north London.
For Kulusevski, this is a small but meaningful step. It doesn’t guarantee an imminent return, but it points to a fresh chapter after such a difficult spell — and if he can rediscover his best form, his comeback could feel like a new signing given his knack for chance creation and driving forward with the ball. Spurs fans will be hoping the wait is nearly over.
