Dejan Kulusevski is nearing a return to competitive action for Tottenham after taking part in an 11-a-side match at the club’s Hotspur Way training ground.
The Sweden international featured during the international break as a senior Tottenham side faced a team comprising the club’s Under-18 and Under-21 players, according to Daily Mail journalist Matt Barlow.
Dejan Kulusevski steps up Tottenham injury return
Kulusevski has been involved in full training schedules and has now successfully increased his match fitness behind closed doors. His participation represents a significant step towards being included in Roberto De Zerbi’s squad.
The 26-year-old has been absent for more than 500 days after suffering a serious knee patella injury in May 2025. The injury required surgery, while further knee complications and minor setbacks prolonged his rehabilitation.
His return to full-contact football will offer encouragement to Tottenham during a difficult start to the Premier League season. Spurs have struggled to produce consistent creativity and attacking fluency, while still seeking their first league win.
Kulusevski’s ability to operate in wide or central positions would give De Zerbi another versatile attacking option. His ball-carrying and vision could provide Tottenham with an additional source of invention when he is ready to return to the matchday squad.
