Dejan Kulusevski’s Recovery Delays Sweden’s World Cup Aspirations

The Dejan Kulusevski injury has been a significant element in the backstory of Tottenham’s failures over the last two seasons. Kulusevski is in training but has not played a match in a year. It remains a mystery as to when he might play again. As with all major interruptions, there is then the issue of match fitness. Sweden coach Graham Potter announced the final squad on May 12, 2026. Kulusevski was not included due to his ongoing recovery from a serious knee injury that has kept him sidelined for about a year (since May 2025).

Graham Potter said: “As for Dejan, it was a very difficult decision in what he has done and where he is in his rehab. It’s hard to get him to where we want him to be. We have to think about what’s right for the team. Dejan has had a long fight and he is making progress. It’s important that he gets to get ready for the start of the season. I haven’t thought of anything other than that because that’s the most important thing. He is a professional. It’s a dream for these guys and you put out that dream… it’s not easy.”

Kulusevski’s wife Eldina Ahmic posted on social media on Tuesday night: “People see an injury. I’ve seen someone get up every morning with a smile on my face, even though life moved in a circle of uncertainty and setbacks. A body that said no but a head that refused to give up,” she wrote on Instagram.

This is a big blow for the 26-year-old Tottenham midfielder, who would normally be a key player for Sweden. Fans and media are expressing disappointment, but the focus is now on his recovery for the 2026-27 club season under Spurs’ current manager.