Tottenham Hotspur have received a massive boost after manager Roberto De Zerbi confirmed that Dejan Kulusevski is set to return to the matchday squad for the Premier League clash against Coventry City.
The Swedish international has endured more than 500 days away from competitive football following a serious knee injury that has kept him out since May 2025.
Kulusevski suffered a complex injury to his right kneecap during Tottenham’s match against Crystal Palace towards the end of the 2024/25 season. What initially appeared to be a minor problem eventually developed into a lengthy recovery process involving surgery and several setbacks.
His prolonged absence has been a significant blow for Spurs, who have missed his creativity, technical ability and versatility in attack.
However, there is finally positive news for the Tottenham faithful, with the 26-year-old making encouraging progress in his rehabilitation.
Kulusevski recently stepped up his recovery by participating in an 11-a-side training match against Tottenham’s academy players during the international break. His progress has now allowed him to take another important step towards a competitive return.
Speaking ahead of Monday’s meeting with Coventry City, De Zerbi confirmed that the club’s medical staff had given the midfielder the green light to return to the matchday squad.
The Italian manager was delighted with the development, highlighting the difficulties Kulusevski has experienced during his lengthy spell on the sidelines.
De Zerbi also praised the player’s character and determination throughout his rehabilitation, describing his response to the injury as an example for his teammates.
Although Kulusevski’s return to the bench is encouraging, it remains unclear whether he will receive any minutes against Coventry. After such a lengthy absence, Tottenham will need to manage his recovery carefully to avoid unnecessary risks.
Meanwhile, Spurs have suffered fresh injury setbacks elsewhere in the squad. Brazilian winger Savio is expected to miss several weeks with a muscular problem, while midfielder Lucas Bergvall is also facing a spell on the sidelines because of a knee issue.
Right-back Pedro Porro is another player Tottenham are monitoring, with De Zerbi suggesting that the defender could return for the upcoming trip to Chelsea.
Despite these setbacks, Kulusevski’s return is undoubtedly encouraging news for Tottenham supporters.
When fully fit, the Swedish international can operate on the right wing or in an attacking midfield role, offering De Zerbi additional options and creativity in the final third.
After more than 500 days of waiting, Spurs fans are finally getting closer to seeing one of their key players back in action.
