Dejan Kulusevski Injury: Sweden Boss Offers Encouraging Update

Dejan Kulusevski injury concerns have been eased somewhat after Sweden manager Graham Potter provided a detailed update on the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder’s rehabilitation progress. The 25-year-old has been sidelined since suffering a right patella injury in May during a Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, ruling him out for both club and country, including Tottenham’s Europa League final victory over Manchester United.

Dejan Kulusevski Injury Update from Sweden’s Graham Potter

Kulusevski underwent knee surgery shortly after the incident and has since been rigorously following a recovery program away from the public eye. Following Sweden’s recent 1-1 draw with Slovenia, Potter sounded optimistic about his star’s prospects: “Dejan is taking steps forward. He was happy with where he is in his rehabilitation. It’s in Tottenham’s hands, and his. But he was feeling good when I last spoke to him and I look forward to seeing him maybe at Christmas or around New Year.”

However, Potter also injected a note of caution, reminding fans that rehabilitation can be unpredictable. “There is a lot of football to be played until then. Nobody knows for sure what it will look like in March. That is the reality. But he’s in a good place, and he was happy with his rehabilitation last time we spoke. Then he was ready to take the next step. But there is no stress involved. He will do his rehab in a good way and if he does that, I am pretty sure we will see him on the pitch soon.”

Sweden Eye Kulusevski for World Cup Play-Off Return

The Swedish national team hopes to have Kulusevski available for their crucial World Cup play-off against Ukraine in March. This fixture holds immense significance, as Sweden finished at the bottom of their qualifying group but earned a lifeline through their Nations League performance. Potter’s cautious optimism indicates that the team is prepared for various scenarios, but having Kulusevski fit would be a huge boost to their attacking options.

Kulusevski’s Recovery Progress: Signs of Optimism

During the international break, encouraging signs emerged when Tottenham defender Destiny Udogie posted training footage from a warm-weather camp in the Middle East, featuring Kulusevski back on the training pitch. The video sparked hope among supporters, although Tottenham’s medical team is keen not to rush his return. Spurs manager Thomas Frank previously stated his hope to see Kulusevski back “before the end of the year” but avoided setting a specific timeframe, focusing instead on patient, steady progress.

Speaking to the media, Frank commented, “Instead of putting an exact month on it—October, November, December—I just want him back as quickly as possible. The medical guys and Kulusevski are working really hard on that. So, it’s not tomorrow, but hopefully not too far away.” He further admitted there is “a good chance” the Swede could make his comeback at the start of the new year.

Resilience and Positivity: Kulusevski Remains Upbeat

Despite the severity of his injury and the duration of his absence, Kulusevski has remained positive throughout his recovery. In September, he candidly shared a graphic photo from his surgery on social media to illustrate his journey, writing, “Thank God it happened so I could see it clear.” Later, in a Viaplay interview, he assured fans of his determination: “The status is great. I wake up every day with the same hunger. I will be back in the very, very near future. If everything goes according to plan, I’m confident I’ll be back in two to three months.”

Tottenham’s Growing Injury List and North London Challenge

Kulusevski’s injury is just one of several setbacks for Tottenham. Playmaker James Maddison is sidelined with a knee issue, while Dominic Solanke—who managed only three appearances this season—remains out after undergoing a minor procedure. Summer loan signing Randal Kolo Muani is also unavailable following a fractured jaw sustained against Manchester United. Solanke recently described his own frustration to The Athletic, explaining, “At first, I didn’t think I would be out for too long but we didn’t really understand the extent of the injury… I’m taking it day by day but hopefully I won’t be much longer.”

Despite these challenges, Tottenham sit fifth in the Premier League table with 18 points from 11 matches. Their next fixture is a derby test at the Emirates against league leaders Arsenal. A win would not only narrow the four-point gap but also provide a vital morale boost and north London bragging rights.

What’s Next for Dejan Kulusevski and Tottenham?

Both club and country are eager for Kulusevski’s return, but patience remains essential. His steady progress and positive outlook suggest a comeback is on the horizon, likely around the New Year if his recovery continues as planned. Supporters will be hoping to see him make an impact in both Tottenham’s attacking ranks and Sweden’s bid for World Cup qualification.

Opinion: Kulusevski’s Comeback Could Spark Spurs’ Season

It’s clear that Dejan Kulusevski’s absence has been keenly felt by both Tottenham and Sweden. His creative spark and drive are difficult to replace. If he returns on schedule, he could provide the boost Spurs need during a congested fixture list and might be the game-changer for Sweden’s World Cup hopes. Fans will be watching his recovery closely, and patience now could pay off with a fully fit, hungry Kulusevski just when his teams need him most.

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