Dejan Kulusevski has disclosed that a specialized intervention targeting his “nervous system” was the pivotal factor in his return to the pitch for Tottenham Hotspur. The Swedish midfielder, who missed 17 months of action due to persistent knee issues, admitted to fearing the premature end of his professional career before a second procedure in March 2025 finally reversed his decline. Kulusevski’s comeback was marked by an emotional reception during the 87th minute of Spurs’ 3-1 victory over Coventry, a moment that signaled a new chapter after a prolonged period of setbacks following his initial surgery in May 2024.
Swedish star credits Swedish physio for breakthrough after 17-month injury nightmare
Following his debut, Kulusevski reinforced his return with a substitute appearance in Saturday’s win at Chelsea, contributing to Tottenham’s recent upward trajectory after a rocky start to the Premier League campaign. The 26-year-old’s physical limitations remain evident, as he revealed he still struggles with basic movements like climbing stairs. However, a consultation with a physiotherapist in Sweden altered his recovery trajectory; the specialist’s techniques eliminated the chronic pain that had previously hindered his training, allowing Kulusevski to perform exercises without the debilitating discomfort that had plagued him for over a year.
Kulusevski’s insights offer a critical look at the complex nature of post-surgical rehabilitation in elite football. His journey from fearing a career-ending injury to making consecutive appearances highlights the importance of holistic medical approaches beyond standard surgical fixes. As Tottenham prepares to face Crystal Palace, Kulusevski’s return provides Ange Postecoglou with a vital creative option, while his candid account of his recovery serves as a testament to the resilience required to overcome long-term physical hurdles in the high-pressure environment of the Premier League.
Source: Yahoo Sports
