Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi casts serious doubt on Dejan Kulusevski's chances of playing for Sweden at the upcoming World Cup. The winger has missed the entire season due to a persistent knee injury since May 2025, undergoing a grueling rehabilitation and a recent minor procedure. De Zerbi's candid assessment highlights the challenges players face in returning to elite competition after extended absences, even as Kulusevski vows to defy the odds.
Kulusevski's Race Against Time Jeopardized
De Zerbi admitted uncertainty over Kulusevski's status but stressed the difficulty of competing at a World Cup without match minutes this season. "For me, it’s difficult to understand how he can play at the World Cup if he didn’t play any games this season," the Italian said. Kulusevski expects to resume rehab at Tottenham's Hotspur Way facility next week, with De Zerbi hoping he can join the squad for their final league game. Sweden, under Graham Potter, missed the 2022 tournament, making Kulusevski's potential return a high-stakes narrative for the nation's fans ahead of the North American finals.
Winger's Defiant Stance Amid Pessimism
Kulusevski remains resolute despite the timeline. In a recent Viaplay interview, he acknowledged the slim odds after a year sidelined but backed himself to recover. "If there is one person on the planet who can do this, I would bet on myself," he declared, framing Sweden's ambitions boldly against powerhouses like Brazil and France. His words reflect the mental fortitude required in professional football, where long-term injuries test not just physical limits but also a player's resolve to reclaim international glory. De Zerbi's text exchange with the player underscores the personal support networks that sustain such comebacks, though practical hurdles loom large.
Richarlison Update Eases Spurs' Immediate Concerns
De Zerbi also addressed Richarlison's absence from Wednesday's training, dismissing injury fears after the Brazilian's goal in Tottenham's 2-1 win over Aston Villa. He attributed the miss to fatigue from a heavy workload, regretting not substituting him earlier. "Richarlison was playing very well, he was important in the set-pieces," De Zerbi noted. This management approach reveals Tottenham's strategy to preserve key assets amid a relegation battle, with the victory lifting them clear of the drop zone.
Tottenham Eyes Strong Finish to Season
Facing Leeds on Monday, followed by Chelsea and Everton, Spurs prioritize squad freshness under De Zerbi's guidance. Kulusevski's prolonged absence amplifies the pressure on medical and coaching staff to balance recovery with performance demands. In football's high-pressure ecosystem, such injury dynamics influence team planning, player morale, and even international call-ups, reminding stakeholders of the fine line between ambition and physical reality.