De Zerbi Questions Kulusevski's World Cup Fitness After Year-Long Injury Layoff
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi casts serious doubt on Dejan Kulusevski's chances of playing for Sweden at the World Cup, citing the winger's year without competitive action due to a knee injury. Despite Kulusevski's public resolve to recover in time for the North American tournament, De Zerbi admits the timeline appears unrealistic. The comments come ahead of Spurs' key Premier League match against Leeds, where squad fitness remains a pressing concern.
Kulusevski's Recovery Faces Uphill Battle
Dejan Kulusevski has not played since May 2025, sidelined by a persistent patella injury that demanded a recent minor procedure. De Zerbi, speaking frankly, stated he struggles to envision the player competing at the World Cup level without games this season. The Italian manager noted Kulusevski plans to resume rehabilitation at Hotspur Way next week and expressed hope for his availability in Spurs' final match, praising him as an "amazing player."
This injury saga underscores the tight margins in elite football, where long-term absences disrupt national team ambitions. Sweden, absent from the 2022 World Cup, relies on stars like Kulusevski-formerly of Juventus-to drive their campaign under Graham Potter. Players returning from such lay-offs often face rust, reduced match sharpness, and heightened re-injury risks, complicating selection for high-stakes tournaments.
Winger Stands Firm on World Cup Ambitions
Kulusevski dismisses pessimism with bold confidence. In a recent Viaplay interview, he acknowledged the odds-"I haven't played in a year. I know what the chances are"-but backed himself unequivocally: "If there is one person on the planet who can do this, I would bet on myself." He envisions Sweden competing fearlessly against powers like Brazil and France, vowing to inspire his nation.
His defiance highlights a common dynamic in sports: athletes pushing physical limits for international glory. Yet De Zerbi's realism tempers expectations, reflecting club priorities over national dreams amid a packed schedule. For Tottenham, reintegrating Kulusevski demands cautious management to avoid setbacks that could derail their season-end push.
Richarlison Update Eases Immediate Worries
De Zerbi also calmed fears over Richarlison, absent from Wednesday training after scoring in Spurs' 2-1 win over Aston Villa. The Brazilian's late substitution raised alarms, but the manager attributed it to fatigue from heavy workload, not injury. "I think my mistake was not to substitute him before the end," De Zerbi said, lauding his set-piece contributions.
With Tottenham escaping the relegation zone, fitness management grows critical. Upcoming fixtures against Leeds, Chelsea, and Everton test squad depth. Clubs like Spurs balance player welfare against results, often rotating to prevent burnout in the Premier League's grueling final stretch.
Spurs Navigate Injury Challenges in Relegation Fight
Tottenham's medical team now prioritizes workload control as the domestic campaign winds down. Kulusevski's absence exposes vulnerabilities, while updates like Richarlison's signal progress. De Zerbi's candor reveals the tensions between club duties and international calls, a perennial issue for Premier League sides with global talent.
For fans and pundits, these developments sharpen focus on Spurs' survival bid. Kulusevski's potential return could boost morale, but his World Cup path remains fraught, blending personal grit with medical realities.
