Overview
- Dejan Kulusevski took part in an 11‑a‑side training match at Tottenham’s Hotspur Way during the international break, marking his first match‑action after more than 500 days out.
- Manager Roberto De Zerbi confirmed Kulusevski will travel with the squad to Old Trafford to offer support, saying the player remains under close medical assessment and is not expected to return to competitive minutes immediately.
- The absence stems from a complicated patella injury that required two surgeries and a March arthroscopic procedure, and his recovery has included stop‑start setbacks since he resumed full training in late August.
- Tottenham’s rebuilt medical and performance unit, led by performance director Dan Lewindon, is overseeing a deliberately cautious reintegration to avoid recurrence after two seasons disrupted by injuries.
- Kulusevski’s progress provides a morale boost and a potential tactical option for a Spurs side low on creative players, though any match involvement will be decided week by week and likely begin with short, managed appearances.