Kulusevski Completes First Tottenham Match Exercise in 500-Day Recovery
Dejan Kulusevski has taken part in an 11-a-side Tottenham training match, his first match-action exercise after more than 500 days out with a serious knee problem.
The Sweden international played for a senior group against a Tottenham side made up of Under-21 and Under-18 players at Hotspur Way during the second week of the international break. It is a major step in a rehabilitation programme that has included two operations on a complex kneecap injury.
Kulusevski closes in on return
- Kulusevski’s injury problems began in May 2025.
- He underwent two surgical procedures across a 10-month period.
- A recent issue temporarily kept him out of first-team sessions.
- He increased his workload during the three-week international window.
- He has now completed an 11-a-side internal match as Tottenham assess the final stage of his recovery.
Roberto De Zerbi has not yet been able to use Kulusevski in a competitive fixture since becoming Tottenham head coach. The winger’s progress offers a potential boost to a squad carrying several fresh fitness concerns.
Who is affected
- Micky van de Ven, the Tottenham captain, sustained a finger injury while away on international duty.
- Jan Paul van Hecke has been restricted by a foot complaint.
- Pedro Porro left the Spain camp after suffering a hamstring injury in the defeat at Aston Villa.
- Mykhailo Mudryk, Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert are also unavailable.
Tottenham’s medical staff, led by performance director Dan Lewindon, are not expected to rush Kulusevski back. His return is being closely monitored and data-tracked after the club’s injury-hit previous two campaigns, both of which ended in 17th place. Spurs only secured survival on the final day last season before changing their player-load approach.
What happens next
Kulusevski is entering the closing phase of his rehabilitation, but his availability for the trip to Manchester United remains undecided. Tottenham travel to Old Trafford this weekend bottom of the Premier League after five games, with two points, two goals and no win.
United are also seeking momentum under Michael Carrick, while De Zerbi must decide whether Kulusevski is ready for a first matchday squad involvement or needs further training work before his competitive comeback.
