Tottenham supporters have plenty to feel positive about this week, with growing indications that Dejan Kulusevski could make his long-awaited return before Wilson Odobert and Xavi Simons, who are both now expected to miss the remainder of 2026 after suffering ACL injuries late last season.
Kulusevski’s road to recovery has been particularly difficult. The Swedish winger suffered a serious knee injury towards the end of the 2024/25 campaign, with reports suggesting it was more complicated than a conventional ACL injury. At one point, there were genuine concerns about what the setback could mean for his career. Those fears increased after he was ruled out for the entire 2025/26 season, while Tottenham provided limited updates regarding his rehabilitation.
However, the situation now appears much more encouraging. Kulusevski has returned to training, has been sharing positive updates on social media and seems to be suggesting that his return to competitive football could be approaching.
His comeback would provide a significant boost to Tottenham. Spurs have missed his leadership, creativity, ability to carry the ball, technical quality and relentless work rate. When fully fit, Kulusevski offers a rare combination of physical strength and attacking imagination.
Simons remains sidelined as Tottenham await the return of their No. 10, while James Maddison could also provide another attacking boost once he recovers from his latest injury. Maddison suffered a dislocated shoulder during the opening-day defeat to Brentford, having already spent the previous season recovering from an ACL injury.
With Maddison potentially returning to the attacking midfield position, Kulusevski could become an especially interesting option through the centre of the pitch. His creativity and playmaking ability could allow him to thrive in a more central role once he is fully fit.
Of course, Tottenham will need to be patient. Considering the seriousness of Kulusevski’s injury and the lengthy period he has spent away from competitive football, managing his comeback carefully will be crucial to preventing another setback.
Nevertheless, there are encouraging signs that Roberto De Zerbi is eager to welcome him back. The Tottenham boss has repeatedly described Kulusevski as a “special player” — the same phrase he has used when discussing Simons.
That comparison could be significant, suggesting De Zerbi believes Kulusevski has the qualities to provide a similar creative influence in a role close to the No. 10 position.
