Kulusevski Completes 'Impossible' Return After 526 Days Out

Dejan Kulusevski has returned to the Premier League, marking the completion of what he described as an "impossible" and "beautiful" journey after a 526-day absence due to a serious knee injury. The Swedish forward made his first appearance since May 2025 as a late substitute in Tottenham's recent match.

Kulusevski's return coincided with an upturn in fortunes for Tottenham, who secured their first league win of the season against Coventry. The forward admitted that just two months ago, he had voiced doubts about his return to loved ones, stating, "it might not work out." However, he maintained belief and continued to work rigorously.

"The journey felt impossible," Kulusevski said. "It was the most difficult it could be, but I had a feeling I was going to come back to play football. I just had to believe and that is what I do."

He detailed the challenges of his recovery, which began after sustaining a kneecap injury against Crystal Palace in May 2025. Surgery followed, but persistent pain and discomfort upon returning to training led to further injections, rest, and ultimately another operation in March. The recovery process was described as long and difficult, with dire warnings about the injury's delicate nature.

Kulusevski credited his Christian faith for helping him through the darker periods of his rehabilitation. "God, he gives me all the power," he stated. "I can’t take credit for what I’ve done because I haven’t done it alone. Every day he has been doing it for me."

He expressed profound gratitude for the support received from Tottenham fans, who gave him a rapturous ovation upon his entry into the game. "I am so grateful that they miss me play," Kulusevski said. "It means a lot and I am here to show them a better me. And a better me will be a better Spurs so we will be good."

Kulusevski participated in an internal practice match earlier in October and traveled with the squad but did not make the bench for the match following the international break. By the time of the Coventry game, he was eager to get back on the pitch. "I was more emotional in the morning," he recalled. "I wasn’t nervous. I was ready to play those 10 minutes and make a good impact. It was amazing. It was fun. A beautiful day and I’m so happy we won."

Having now returned, Kulusevski feels he is a different person, albeit still the same player who wants to compete. "I see myself a little different now. I think I am a different man now. Same guy, same guy that wants to play football but a little bit smarter."