Kulusevski returns to Spurs bench after 18-month absence

Dejan Kulusevski is set to return to the Tottenham Hotspur matchday squad for the first time in nearly 18 months, manager Roberto De Zerbi confirmed on Sunday. The Swedish winger has been sidelined since a knee injury sustained in May 2025.

"Yes, Kulusevski on the bench," De Zerbi told reporters ahead of Monday's Premier League home fixture against Coventry City. "We had a meeting with the medical staff, they gave the okay and it's great news."

De Zerbi made clear the significance stretched beyond football. "I think it's one of the best news after Everton game last season, because Deki, he suffered too much. He deserves to feel emotion on the pitch," the Italian said.

The manager described telling Kulusevski directly after training. "I said to him, 'Deki, look, I spoke with the medical staff, and they gave me the okay' and he smiled like this. We are happy, we are very, very happy."

"It's not football. I'm not speaking about football. Okay, he's a special player, but we are speaking about different things. He suffered a lot and his reaction was great."

Kulusevski's last appearance for Spurs was against Crystal Palace in the Premier League on 11 May, 2025. The 26-year-old has been a key figure for both club and the Swedish national team. Tottenham host Coventry City at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Monday at 8pm UK time.