Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi casts serious doubt on Dejan Kulusevski's chances of playing for Sweden at the World Cup, citing the winger's year-long absence due to a knee injury. Despite Kulusevski's public resolve to recover in time for the North American tournament, De Zerbi struggles to envision him competing after missing the entire season. The comments come ahead of Spurs' key Premier League match against Leeds, with De Zerbi also easing concerns over Richarlison's fitness.

Kulusevski's Race Against Time Clouds Sweden's Ambitions

Dejan Kulusevski has not played since May 2025, sidelined by a persistent patella injury that demanded a recent minor procedure. De Zerbi acknowledged the forward's talent but highlighted the challenge: "It’s difficult to understand how he can play at the World Cup if he didn’t play any games this season." The Italian manager noted Kulusevski's expected return to Hotspur Way next week for rehabilitation, expressing hope he might feature in Tottenham's final match.

This injury saga underscores the tight timelines players face when balancing club duties and international commitments. Sweden, absent from the 2022 World Cup, relies on stars like Kulusevski to elevate their squad under Graham Potter. A prolonged absence risks not only his tournament participation but also his club form, as Tottenham pushes to secure Premier League stability.

Winger Stands Firm Amid Pessimism

Kulusevski dismisses the odds stacked against him. In a recent Viaplay interview, he declared: “I haven't played in a year. I know what the chances are. But if there is one person on the planet who can do this, I would bet on myself.” He envisions Sweden competing fearlessly against powers like Brazil and France, vowing to inspire his nation.

His defiance reflects a common dynamic in elite football, where athletes push physical limits for national glory. Yet De Zerbi's realism tempers expectations, reminding stakeholders of recovery realities. For fans and bettors tracking World Cup markets, such uncertainties amplify the volatility of futures wagers on player involvement and team performance.

Richarlison Update Eases Spurs' Injury Worries

Richarlison skipped Wednesday's training after scoring in Tottenham's 2-1 win over Aston Villa, prompting setback fears. De Zerbi clarified it stemmed from fatigue, not injury: "He worked very hard [against Villa]. I think my mistake was not to substitute him before the end of the game." The Brazilian's set-piece contributions proved vital in that match.

This approach signals Tottenham's focus on workload management during a grueling schedule. With games against Leeds, Chelsea, and Everton looming, the club climbed out of the relegation zone via the Villa result. De Zerbi prioritizes squad depth to end the campaign strongly, balancing immediate Premier League survival against long-term player welfare.

Implications for Clubs, Nations, and Betting Markets

Tottenham's medical team now juggles multiple fitness battles as the season closes. Kulusevski's plight highlights broader tensions between domestic leagues and international tournaments, where clubs bear rehabilitation costs without guaranteed returns. Sweden's preparations hinge on such recoveries, potentially reshaping group-stage odds if key players falter.

In betting contexts, injury doubts like these drive market fluctuations, with sportsbooks adjusting lines based on managerial insights and player updates. Consumers benefit from transparent club communications, enabling informed decisions amid inherent risks. Tottenham's position illustrates how fitness management directly influences survival fights and future transfer values in the high-stakes Premier League ecosystem.