Sweden head coach Graham Potter confirmed his 26-man World Cup squad without Tottenham midfielder Dejan Kulusevski, ending the player's year-long fight against a knee injury. The 26-year-old suffered the damage in a May 2025 match against Crystal Palace and has yet to return to full training. This omission dashes his hopes of competing on football's grandest stage in the United States.
Potter Seals Kulusevski's Fate After Rehab Setbacks
Kulusevski's injury demanded two surgeries and forced him into intensive rehabilitation abroad, away from Tottenham's Hotspur Way facilities. Despite his resolve, he logged no competitive minutes this season, blocking his path to Potter's selection. The decision underscores the unforgiving timelines of international tournaments, where fitness must align precisely with squad announcements.
De Zerbi Voices Early Skepticism on Player's Readiness
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi questioned Kulusevski's World Cup prospects weeks ago, citing the absence of match action as a critical shortfall. "It’s difficult to understand how he can play at the World Cup if he didn’t play any games this season," De Zerbi stated. His assessment, shared within the club, reflected broader concerns over rushing players back from major knee issues, which often prolong recovery and heighten re-injury risks.
Sweden Squad Balances Loss with Premier League Talent
Potter's roster retains strong English Premier League representation to offset Kulusevski's absence. Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres and Liverpool forward Alexander Isak anchor the attack, while Tottenham prospect Lucas Bergvall earns a call-up. Other inclusions feature Brighton's Yasin Ayari, Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof, Leeds' Gabriel Gudmundsson, and Newcastle's Anthony Elanga, blending experience and pace for the campaign ahead.
Group F Fixtures Test Sweden's Adjusted Lineup
Sweden face Tunisia on June 15 in Texas, followed by the Netherlands five days later and Japan to close group play. Without Kulusevski's playmaking, Potter leans on his forwards' firepower to advance. The group presents immediate hurdles, demanding quick adaptation from a squad shaped by Premier League demands yet missing one of its creative engines.
