De Zerbi Speaks Negatively About Top Star Injury He Might Not Be Available This Summer
Tottenham Hotspur have provided a major positive update on Dejan Kulusevski, with the Sweden international included in the club’s final 25-man Premier League squad for the new season.
The decision to name Kulusevski in the squad could be an important sign that the winger is finally moving closer to a return to competitive action after a frustrating period on the sidelines. The 25-year-old has endured a lengthy battle with a persistent knee problem and has not played for Tottenham since the Europa League final in May 2025.
Kulusevski’s absence has been a major setback for Spurs, particularly because of the important role he had previously established within the team. His injury kept him out for a significant period under previous managers, including Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor and Ange Postecoglou, leaving Tottenham without one of their most experienced attacking options.
There is now renewed optimism, however, after Kulusevski was recently spotted back in training at Hotspur Way. The winger has been working carefully on his fitness as he attempts to complete his recovery and return to full first-team football.
New Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has repeatedly warned against rushing Kulusevski back into action. The Italian manager understands the seriousness of the player’s injury problems and is expected to take a cautious approach to ensure that the Sweden international does not suffer another setback.
Despite those concerns, Kulusevski’s inclusion in the Premier League squad represents a significant step forward. It suggests that De Zerbi still considers the winger an important part of his plans and believes he could make a valuable contribution once he is fully fit.
Spurs have also included Mohammed Kudus in their squad after the Ghanaian recovered from a troublesome thigh injury. Kudus recently returned to action from the bench during Tottenham’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United, giving De Zerbi another attacking option to work with.
His return could become particularly important following Mikey Moore’s departure on loan, as Tottenham now have fewer natural options in wide areas. Having both Kudus and, eventually, Kulusevski available could give De Zerbi greater flexibility when selecting his attacking line-up.
However, there was one notable omission from Tottenham’s final squad, with Richarlison left out. De Zerbi has previously confirmed that the Brazilian forward is keen to leave the north London club, making his absence another indication that his future at Spurs remains uncertain.
For Kulusevski, though, the latest development could represent the beginning of a fresh chapter at Tottenham. After spending such a long period battling injury, the winger now has an opportunity to rebuild his career and potentially become an important player under De Zerbi.
His inclusion does not necessarily mean that he is immediately ready to play, but it is certainly an encouraging signal for both the player and Tottenham supporters. The club will be desperate to avoid rushing his recovery, especially after such a prolonged absence.
If Kulusevski can regain his fitness and return to his best level, his comeback could feel like a new signing for Spurs. The Swedish star has previously shown his ability to create chances, carry the ball forward and contribute in the final third, qualities that could prove extremely useful to De Zerbi’s attacking system.
Tottenham fans will now be watching his recovery closely and hoping that the long wait is finally coming to an end. After more than a year away from competitive action, supporters will be hoping to see Kulusevski back on the pitch sooner rather than later and, most importantly, free from the injury problems that have disrupted his progress.
