Roberto De Zerbi has offered a glimmer of hope for Tottenham fans, revealing that Dejan Kulusevski could still make a return before the season concludes. The Swedish winger has been sidelined since May 2025 after suffering a patella injury during a clash with Crystal Palace, leaving his availability uncertain for the final stretch of the campaign.
When asked if Kulusevski might be fit enough to represent Sweden at the upcoming World Cup in North America, De Zerbi was cautious. "I don't know," he admitted. "It's difficult to understand how he can play in the World Cup if he hasn't played any games this season. But I texted him after the Birmingham match, and he told me he thinks he'll come back next week. I hope he can be available for us in the last games because he's an amazing player. I just can't say more about his injury."
The injury woes don't stop there for Spurs. James Maddison has also been absent all season after suffering an Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury during a pre-season match against Arsenal. The English playmaker has been an unused substitute in all but one game since De Zerbi took over, sparking questions about his readiness for Monday's crucial clash against Leeds.
"Not yet," De Zerbi responded when asked if Maddison was match-ready. "We haven't discussed his condition specifically. But I assess his form on the pitch, drawing on my experience alongside the medical and physical staff. We check daily to see if he can play."
Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is another name on the injury list, having not featured since undergoing hernia surgery in March. While Antonin Kinsky has stepped up admirably in his absence, De Zerbi was clear about Vicario's status. "No, he's not back in training yet. Vicario remains our first-choice goalkeeper. What he's shown this season is enough to consider him a top player for us. But we have to consider his physical condition, how long he's been out, and we'll see when he's ready to play."
As Spurs navigate this injury-riddled season, fans will be hoping for positive news on all fronts, especially with key fixtures on the horizon.