Kulusevski returns to Tottenham after 526 days out. Can he save the team's attack?

Swedish Dejan Kulusevski has returned to Tottenham after a 526-day absence due to a knee injury sustained in May 2025, in a comeback that could represent a significant boost for the team, which has missed a player it has not been able to truly replace during his time out.

A report by The Times, written by Tom Allnutt, indicates that Tottenham have undergone significant changes since the injury of their Swedish winger, with three different managers taking charge of the team and the club signing 20 new players. However, none of them have succeeded in filling the void left by Kulusevski in the attacking setup.

Dejan Kulusevski's return is crucial for Tottenham as he can create opportunities and provide additional solutions for the attack, having been one of the standout attacking players for the team before his injury. According to the report, the player contributed to 33 goals through scoring and assisting during 84 matches in the Premier League, and he topped the list of chance creators before his absence from the pitch.

Dejan Kulusevski's return comes after a long treatment and rehabilitation journey that saw setbacks and multiple medical procedures, before he gradually regained his fitness and participated in group training and practice matches. Tottenham hope that his return will help restore their attacking effectiveness, but the club is aware of the need to handle his physical condition with caution after such a long absence.

Dejan Kulusevski's return is expected to provide coach Roberto De Zerbi with an important option as the team seeks more impactful attacking solutions. The real challenge for Kulusevski remains gradually regaining his form and avoiding injuries before assessing his ability to reinvigorate Tottenham's attack.