Kulusevski: There Were Times I Thought It Would Never Happen

Dejan Kulusevski has described his return to action after 526 days on the sidelines as a moment that long felt impossible. The Sweden international made his comeback for Tottenham in a 3-1 Premier League victory over Coventry, marking the end of an arduous 18-month recovery from a severe knee injury.

"There were times when I thought this would never happen. It was extremely tough, but I never gave up. I just kept working every single day without knowing when I'd be able to return," Kulusevski said, as quoted by the Mirror. The Swede had not featured since May 2025, when he sustained the injury in a clash against Crystal Palace, with his rehabilitation delayed by complications that required further medical intervention.

His comeback was met with an emotional reception from the Tottenham supporters, and the player admitted the feeling was overwhelming. Manager Roberto De Zerbi was equally delighted to have the 26-year-old attacking midfielder at his disposal once again.

"He has suffered so much. He deserves to feel the emotion of being on the pitch again," the Italian said ahead of the match. Kulusevski's prolonged absence deprived Spurs of one of their most creative outlets, ruling him out of their 2025 Europa League triumph, the entire subsequent season, and the 2026 World Cup. His return provides a major boost for the team as they look to find consistency in the Premier League, though the club will have to manage his workload carefully following such a lengthy spell out.