Tottenham are edging closer to welcoming back a key player after a lengthy layoff, with Dejan Kulusevski’s return now looking within reach. The Swede last played for the club on May 11, 2025, forced off during a home loss to Crystal Palace. What was first dismissed as a minor knock turned out to be a serious right patella injury, one that required two separate surgeries and a long, difficult rehabilitation.
The 26-year-old only resumed full training with his teammates around a month ago, and while he hit a small bump along the way under Roberto De Zerbi, his progress has otherwise been steady. Club footage showing him running and training has lifted spirits among fans hoping his comeback is finally near.
Talk that he might debut for Sweden during the international break faded once Graham Potter omitted him from the Nations League squad, shifting focus back to his club return. Reports suggest he’s now close to being available for selection, with Tottenham’s October 10 clash against Manchester United floated as a possible target. If that’s deemed premature, his return could instead come in one of the following few fixtures, assuming no further issues arise.
His comeback would land at a crucial time. Despite heavy summer spending, Spurs have struggled for creativity going into the new season, and De Zerbi has compared getting Kulusevski back to landing a fresh signing. His versatility — able to play across the front line, through the middle, or as a No.10 — adds real value, and since arriving from Juventus in 2023 he’s contributed to 55 goals in 146 appearances.
Given the length of his absence, Tottenham are expected to bring him back gradually rather than throw him straight into full minutes. Still, simply having him available again would boost competition for places and give De Zerbi more options going forward. For supporters, the sight of Kulusevski back on the pitch after over 500 days will be a welcome one — and if his recovery stays on track, that moment may not be far off.
